Bed sore injuries, otherwise known as decubitus ulcers or pressure sores, are painful open flesh wounds, which are caused by lying or sitting in the same position for too long. A combination of a person’s body weight and a lack of blood circulation cause sores to develop in different areas such as on the lower back, buttocks, hips, and thighs. These wounds are highly susceptible to infection if not treated and can become fatal, especially for elderly patients and those with health issues and compromised immune systems. Our Jacksonville bed sore attorneys will hold caregivers accountable for their negligence.
Bed Sore Injuries | Statistics
Bedsores have a significant impact on the mortality rate in patients admitted to hospital and nursing care facilities. Studies have shown that of 3,000 people who were admitted to hospital with a pressure sore, 16.7% developed at least one new sore. It was found that patients with a bedsore were 2.8 times more likely to die in hospital. The studies also showed that the mortality rate of patients with a bedsore was vastly increased compared with a patient without a bedsore at a rate of 9.1% to 1.8%.
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Bed Sore Injuries | Liability
In Florida, there have been many cases where nursing homes and caregivers have been held liable due to negligence. Bedsores are easily preventable if the correct steps are taken and appropriate care is provided by the caregivers. Failure to do so can result in legal action being taken by the patient or the family and those responsible being held accountable.
If your loved ones have suffered from bedsores while in the care of a nursing home or during a hospital stay, it’s very possible that neglect was the cause. Get in touch with the Jacksonville bed sore attorneys at Edwards & Ragatz today and let us for a free case review and consultation.