Aging and illness come with numerous physical, emotional, and mental challenges. One often overlooked issue is bedsores. Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers, are painful and potentially life-threatening lesions that can develop when people lay in a bed or sit in a chair for long periods without moving. In some cases, they can signal neglect or inadequate care.
Bedsores can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable individuals. Unfortunately, bedsores can result in severe complications and fatalities.
If you or a loved one suffer from bedsores because of a provider’s negligence, the experienced New Jersey bedsores lawyers at O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble can help. Our attorneys have litigated numerous patient neglect cases. We can help you understand your legal rights and determine if you have a pressure sores case. Our attorney will then fight to hold all potentially responsible parties accountable and pursue the compensation you and your loved one deserve. Contact us today to discuss your potential bedsores injury claim, and let us fight for your justice.
Who Is at Risk for Developing Bedsores?
Bedsores can affect anyone who spends a long time in one position without moving. However, certain people face a higher risk. Those who may be at higher risk of getting bedsores include:
- Seniors—aging skin is delicate, and factors like reduced mobility and chronic health conditions can aggravate it, leading to ulcerations;
- The bedridden—bedridden people are vulnerable because constant pressure on body parts can damage tissue over time;
- People who use wheelchairs—spinal cord injuries or other paralysis-related conditions that confine mobility to one continual position can increase the risk of bedsores; and
- People with certain medical conditions—disorders such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or neurological disorders make individuals more susceptible to developing bedsores.
Caregivers can often prevent or minimize bedsores by using proper protocols for immobilized patients and providing attentive care. However, people with the risk factors mentioned above require extra special attention and care.
Are Bedsores a Sign of Neglect?
Experts in the U.S. estimate bedsores wreak havoc on 2.5 million Americans yearly. Even when patients receive excellent care, bedsores still occur. But in some cases, they may indicate neglect.
Properly caring for at-risk people includes implementing bedsore prevention measures. These can include:
- Regular repositioning to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas;
- Providing proper nutrition and hydration; and
- Maintaining a clean, dry environment to prevent skin degradation.
When negligent nursing or healthcare staff fail to adhere to these protocols, bedsores can develop or worsen, causing complications such as infections, sepsis, or even death.
What Should I Do If I Think a Loved One Has a Bedsore Case?
If you suspect your loved one has bedsores, it’s important to act quickly. Take the following steps as soon as possible:
- Speak up. Voicing your concerns may prompt healthcare providers or nursing home staff to address any issues and provide better care.
- Seek medical attention. Attain medical care from a healthcare professional who can judge and treat the wound’s severity. This may involve finding a different healthcare provider or transferring your loved one to another facility.
- Document the wound. Take photographs and keep detailed records of bedsores and any progression.
- Report the incident. Notify the appropriate authorities. For example, you should alert nursing home administration or regulatory agencies regarding potential neglect or inadequate care.
- Gather supporting evidence. Collect evidence relating to the bedsores and how they progressed. This includes collecting medical records and witness statements.
- Consult with a New Jersey bedsore lawyer. An experienced bedsore attorney can evaluate the situation and determine whether you have a bedsore lawsuit. They can guide you through the legal process and protect your or your loved one’s rights.
When neglect leads to bedsores, speaking up and seeking guidance from knowledgeable New Jersey bedsores lawyers will help ensure the responsible parties are held accountable.
Can I Sue for Bedsores?
Bedsores resulting from neglect or mistreatment may warrant a lawsuit. Depending on the circumstances, these lawsuits typically fall under medical malpractice or nursing home negligence. Generally, for these types of claims, you must demonstrate that:
- The healthcare provider or facility had a duty of care,
- They failed that duty, and
- That the failure directly caused or contributed to developing bedsores.
Proving these elements may involve gathering medical records, seeking expert opinions, and providing other evidence showing neglect or substandard care.
Your New Jersey bedsores attorneys can better explain medical malpractice or nursing home negligence claims. If you have a viable claim, you can seek compensation for your or your loved one’s damages, including physical and emotional pain, medical expenses, and other damages.
How Can New Jersey Bedsores Lawyers Help Me?
Attorneys specializing in nursing home negligence and medical malpractice are well-versed in bedsore laws and regulations. They should also thoroughly understand the precautions healthcare providers must take to keep at-risk individuals safe. They’ll know lawsuit filing requirements and deadlines and can calculate your potential compensation. They may help you settle your bedsore lawsuit through negotiation or mediation. However, if you cannot reach a just resolution, they will be ready and able to represent you or your loved one’s interests in court.
When you work with the bedsore lawyers at O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble, for example, we will help you gather evidence and then use this information to build a strong case highlighting the healthcare professional’s negligence. Our lawyers also provide compassionate support from case inception to finish. We understand how emotionally draining bedsores can be and consider that throughout the process. Our skilled attorneys provide the expertise and support needed to successfully navigate complex legal issues and ensure the best possible outcome. You get the best of all worlds when you work with us.
O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble Can Help
At O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble, our experienced bedsore attorneys take a comprehensive approach to building a robust case. If it’s in your best interest, we’ll negotiate a settlement with the responsible party, saving you the time and emotional turmoil of going to trial. But if your case doesn’t settle, we’ll continue to advocate for you or your loved one until we achieve justice.
We’re known for our rock-solid attorney-client relationships and never lose sight of what matters most—your and your loved one’s well-being. However, we also understand the hard-hitting tactics needed to ensure our clients receive the maximum settlement for their injuries and losses. Our successes and professionalism have impressed peers and clients alike. Let us show you how we can earn your respect. Call us at 908-928-9200 for a free consultation.