After spending a long time in bed, especially while admitted to a hospital or a nursing home, you might develop bedsores. Bedsores are a result of pressure due to lying or sitting in one position for a long time. They might occur in those who are neglected by nurses and caregivers in nursing homes.
In most cases, the hospital or the nursing home is liable for the condition, and you can decide to take legal action against them. But before taking this route, you first need to understand the stages of bedsores and when to hire an experienced lawyer to help you file your case.
4 Stages of Bedsores
Once you are diagnosed with bedsores, your healthcare provider will use the staging system to determine the severity. The four main stages of bedsores include:
- Stage 1: Skin erythema
- Stage 2: Skin erythema with partial loss of epidermis and superficial dermis
- Stage 3: Pressure ulcer thickens, affecting the subcutaneous fat
- Stage 4: Ulcer gains full thickness, affecting the muscles and bones
More information on the different stages of bedsores is discussed below.
Stage 1
In this stage, which is characterized by skin erythema, your skin may turn pink or red. For people with darker skin tones, it might be difficult to notice the color change. However, the skin may feel softer, warmer, and, in some instances, firmer. Some medics refer to this stage as a pressure injury.
Stage 2
This stage is associated with a shallow wound. This wound is primarily due to the partial loss of the epidermis and superficial dermis. The wound may turn red or pink; in some situations, it might come in the form of a blister.
Stage 3
By stage three, the wound mentioned in the second stage develops into a deeper wound. This is due to the pressure ulcer thickening and affecting the hypodermis or the subcutaneous fat layer of the skin.
Stage 4
A bedsore is considered to be in stage 4 once it develops into a deeper wound, digging into the three layers of the skin and exposing the muscles, tendons, and bones. The bedsore can be considered to be full-blown at this stage.
Complications That May Arise from Bedsores
There are various complications that may arise from bedsores. Some of these complications can be life-threatening and may lead to paralysis and financial losses due to the requirement of proper medical care. The complications include:
- Bacterial infection
- Bone infection
- Blood infection
1. Bacterial Infections
Pressure ulcers increase the chances of getting bacterial infections, such as septicemia and cellulitis. Additionally, you can develop sepsis, which can be fatal. According to statistics by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, over 60,000 individuals die every year as a result of pressure ulcers.
2. Bone Infections
Pressure sores may lead to sinus tracts, which may further lead to bone infections such as osteomyelitis or joint infections such as septic arthritis. These infections can further lead to more complications and, in severe instances, result in amputation.
3. Blood Infections
In some instances, pressure ulcers may result in blood infections due to bacteria such as Group A streptococcus. These bacteria can lead to bacteremia and, in severe cases, cause necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease).
Signs of Infected Bedsores
Symptoms of infection vary from one person to the next; hence, it’s vital for you to consult your doctor. However, the most common signs of infections include:
- Fever and chills
- Painful sores
- Foul smell
- Warm and red sores
- Pus
Bedsore Lawsuits: Why You Deserve Competent Care and Legal Support
In the US, there are more than 17,000 bedsore-related lawsuits annually. This statistic shows that you should not suffer because of the negligence of caregivers and nurses. Hire an experienced lawyer to help you with your case!
Understanding the stages of bedsores is crucial not only for your health but also for holding negligent caregivers accountable. As you navigate the complexities of a bedsore diagnosis, remember that you have the right to seek justice and compensation for any suffering endured due to inadequate care. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified attorney who can guide you through the legal process and ensure that your voice is heard in the fight for proper treatment and accountability.
