In their mildest form, bedsores are a source of discomfort. An elderly person who does not receive proper care and assistance in a nursing home may consistently lie on the same side, for example. This can lead to substantial pressure ulcers that make it painful for them to remain in that position.
However, it is important to note that bedsores can lead to fatal complications. If you believe an elderly loved one in a nursing home is developing bedsores, it is crucial to take the situation seriously. This is not a minor issue and needs to be addressed, perhaps with medical treatment.
Conditions bedsores can cause
The issue is that advanced bedsores can lead to infections and other related conditions, which can be extremely dangerous. Some of these include:
- Bacteremia
- Endocarditis
- Bacterial meningitis
- Osteomyelitis (bone infections)
- Septic arthritis (joint infections)
- Streptococcus infections
- Necrotizing fasciitis
- Cellulitis
It is also important to note that any infection can be dangerous for elderly individuals. Even a simple fever could be deadly for an elderly person with a compromised immune system. If bedsores are not treated properly and become advanced or infected, they can take a significant toll on the individual’s health and may lead to premature death.
What options do you have?
As the family member of a loved one suffering from neglect in a nursing home, it is essential to understand your legal options. It may be beneficial to work with an experienced law firm to seek guidance and take the necessary steps to protect your loved one. Bedsores, after all, are just one of many potential ramifications of nursing home neglect.
