Utah Pressure Ulcer Lawyers

Pressure ulcers, bedsores, or pressure sores are painful and often preventable injuries that occur when sustained pressure is applied to the skin and underlying tissues, and can have devastating consequences for seniors. These wounds typically develop in areas where bones are close to the skin, such as the heels, hips, tailbone, and elbows.

Pressure ulcers are common when individuals become immobile, such as bedridden or confined to wheelchairs. The elderly in nursing homes are thus susceptible to these injuries if they do not receive proper, preventable care. Negligence or poor training for nursing home staff can thus lead to these wounds that can develop over hours and rapidly worsen without medical intervention. 

At Elder Care Injury, our team of nursing home abuse attorneys understands the physical and emotional trauma caused by debilitating pressure ulcers. Our firm is dedicated exclusively to representing senior citizens and their families in cases of injury, abuse, or neglect in nursing homes and other elder care facilities in Salt Lake County, Ogden, Provo, and throughout Utah, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and Idaho.  

Your initial consultation with a Utah pressure ulcer attorney is complimentary. Make an appointment with Elder Care Injury via our contact form or at (801) 997-5019. 

Causes and Care of Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers are primarily caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, combined with friction and shear forces. Shear forces play a significant role in the development and progression of pressure ulcers. Shear forces occur when two surfaces move in opposite directions, causing tissues to slide against each other. 

In pressure ulcers, these forces typically occur when the skin remains fixed to a surface while underlying tissues, such as muscles and bones, move or slide in the opposite direction. The combination of pressure and shear forces can disrupt the blood flow to the affected area, resulting in ischemia (lack of oxygen and nutrients) and tissue breakdown.

Shear forces can particularly damage the deep tissues, including muscles, tendons, and blood vessels. They can cause microscopic tears and damage the connective tissues, impairing the skin's ability to tolerate pressure and reducing its ability to heal.

Factors Contributing to Pressure Ulcers

Factors contributing to pressure ulcer development include immobility, poor nutrition, moisture, and medical conditions such as diabetes or circulatory problems.

Proper care involves frequent repositioning, appropriate support surfaces, good hygiene, and adequate nutrition. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and promote healing.

Stages of Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers develop in stages, with each stage a sign of a worsening effect. In Stage One, the skin is intact but may appear red or discolored and feel warm. In Stage Two, the skin breaks down, forming an open sore, blister, or shallow crater. 

The ulcer deepens in Stage Three, extending into the underlying tissue layers, potentially exposing fat or muscle. Finally, in Stage Four, the ulcer becomes severe, affecting deep tissues, muscles, tendons, or bones, and may cause widespread infection. 

The eventual results of pressure ulcers depend on the severity and promptness of treatment. If left untreated or improperly managed, they can lead to infection, abscesses requiring drainage and further medical intervention, gangrene that may require surgical removal of dead tissue, or, in the worst cases, amputation. 

Prevention and Significance of Pressure Ulcers

Prevention is key when it comes to pressure ulcers. Nursing homes are responsible for providing adequate care and taking preventative measures, such as regular turning and repositioning of residents, ensuring proper nutrition, and maintaining a clean and dry environment.

Pressure ulcers can be a significant sign of nursing home neglect or abuse. It indicates a failure to provide proper care and attention to residents, potentially resulting in severe physical pain, infection, and other complications.

Potential Damages for Victims of Pressure Ulcers

In an injury claim or lawsuit, pressure ulcer victims may be entitled to various damages, including:

• Medical expenses: Reimbursement for past and future medical treatments, surgeries, medications, and therapy.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Rehabilitation costs: Coverage for rehabilitation services, including physical therapy and wound care.
• Punitive damages: Additional compensation awarded to punish the at-fault party in cases of particularly egregious behavior.

Turn to Elder Care Injury for Seasoned and Tenacious Legal Representation

Our experienced attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult medical experts to build a strong claim on behalf of your family member. We will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence and for the compensation your loved one deserves.

Contact us to discuss your case with an attorney today.