It is not uncommon for a nursing home resident to develop bed sores. Even in the best nursing homes a resident could develop a bed sore. However, there is no acceptable situation where a bed sore is allowed to progress to a Stage IV bed sore. A Stage IV bed sore is described as a “deep, massive open wound.”
Bed sores, also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers occur from unrelieved pressure. It can also happen when the skin rubs again something, such as a bed sheet, a cast or from prolonged exposure to cold.
A bed sore is similar to a burn wound. At first, there may be mild redness and or blistering of the skin such as a first degree burn. If left untreated it could progress to a deep open wound with necrotized tissue around it, similar to that of a third or fourth degree burn.
Bed sores, when treat quickly and properly, will heal and will not progress any further. If left untreated and allowed to progress to a Stage IV bed sore, they can be very difficult to treat and can become life threatening.
If you believe that your loved one has been neglect or abused, or if the neglect or abuse has lead to serious injury or death of a loved one, contact our office immediately at 866-559-0097 to speak with one of our experienced Illinois nursing home abuse attorneys.
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