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A safety and health tactic that is commonly used in nursing homes to prevent pain and injuries is regular posture turning and monitoring of wounds. When the elderly are not regularly moved, regardless of their mobility, there is extended, unrelieved pressure on their skin. Over time, this pressure can lead to wounds that break through skin and infect tissue. These injuries can be prevented with appropriate attention, time, and hygiene. Pressure sore injuries are a warning sign that something is very wrong at the nursing home.
At nursing homes, there are certain standards that can be followed to relieve pressure sore injuries. When these standards of care are followed, these injuries are much less common and occur as a part of the aging process. However, when these processes are not fulfilled, pain and suffering is inevitable. Nursing home staff is required to:
- Practice ideal hygiene (regular bathing and care of wounds)
- Identify high-risk patients and give them pressure reducing devices
- Regular turning and moving of patients in bed
- Optimal nutrition and hydration
Ultimately, not following these standards of care can lead to serious side effects. Patients can suffer from infections, sepsis, or even need to amputate body parts if pressure sore injuries are too great. When these basic steps for prevention are followed, the incidence of pressure sores is lower. Unfortunately, nursing homes are often understaffed or management simply does not provide adequate training for their staff.
Nursing home staff should be held accountable for keeping your loved ones safe, comfortable, and healthy. If you suspect that pressure sore injuries are a result of a lack of care, the next step is to reach out to a Chicago nursing home abuse attorney. Without further action, the individuals and management that are responsible for your loved ones and countless others’ will continue to engage in neglectful and abusive behavior.
Consult Our Nursing Home Lawyer
Pressure sore injuries are extremely painful and distressing, but they can be prevented. Our Illinois nursing home abuse lawyers at Harvey L. Walner & Associates, Ltd. are available at (312) 313-2888 or online today to discuss your case. Please don’t wait too long to get in touch with us!
