Representing Clients Suffering from Preventable Bedsores in and around NYC
Bedsores are a common problem in hospitals and nursing homes, though they do not have to be. These painful and, often, serious wounds can be prevented with the right care from medical professionals, nursing home staff, and other caretakers. Unfortunately, bedsores continue to be a constant problem for the sick or elderly because they are neglected by those they should trust.
When persistent bedsores result in pain and losses for patients or nursing home residents, the law gives them the right to hold negligent parties accountable. These claims can be complicated, and facilities will fight liability whenever they can. It is important to seek help from an experienced bedsore lawyer at Sinel & Olesen, PLLC, as soon as possible.
The Basis for Bedsore Claims
Bedsores are wounds that can form when there is relentless pressure to a part of the body. When someone is ill or has physical limitations, they may be constantly in a wheelchair, unable to move from a bed, or even unable to roll over on their own. If medical staff fails to regularly shift patients or nursing home residents, the constant pressure can result in bedsores in different locations on the body, such as:
- Lower back
- Tailbone
- Shoulder blades
- Back of the head
- Back of the legs or arms
- Along the spine
- Hips
- Heels
- Ankles
These pressure sores are open ulcers, which can cause serious pain and suffering. Many complications can develop, including infections of the skin, soft tissue, bones, or joints. Severe and long-term cases may lead to sepsis or a type of carcinoma. Bedsores can result in costly medical bills for treatment of complications, and they can cause mental and physical distress of patients.
The Rights of Bedsore Victims
Hospitals and nursing homes owe patients and residents a specific standard of care. This can include identifying the risk of possible bedsores and taking the necessary steps to prevent ulcers from forming. When facilities fail to do so, the patient can suffer harm and may have the right to seek compensation from the negligent parties.
Some legal issues that can arise in bedsore lawsuits include the following:
A skilled attorney can review your situation and determine what type of lawsuit is appropriate in your situation. Taking legal action can result in compensation for a variety of losses, including medical bills for treatment of the bedsores or related complications, as well as intangible pain and suffering.
Contact an Experienced New York City Bedsore Lawyer for Help Today
New York law only gives injured individuals a certain amount of time to file a lawsuit for negligence leading to injuries such as bedsores, or for the wrongful death of a loved one due to bedsore complications. If you or a family member suffered harm due to preventable bedsores, you should not delay in seeking help from the right New York bedsore lawyer.
Call Sinel & Olesen, PLLC at 212-465-1000 or contact us online for a free consultation today.
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What causes bedsores and pressure sores?
People develop bed sores when they don’t receive adequate medical attention. This results in an open wound and irritated skin patches that are caused by friction or unrelieved/prolonged pressure.
Although a bed sore can develop almost anywhere, the most common areas of the body to develop them are:
- the backside
- the buttocks
- heels
- ankles
- hips
- the head
Can I sue for bedsores?
Why are some people at risk for bedsores or pressure sores?
Anyone who relies on heathcare staff to reposition them is at greater risk since failure to do this can cause bedsores to develop.
Even for elderly and immobile patients, bedsores are completely preventable if the staff uses proper precautions and ensures that residents receive adequate care.
