Bedsores in Nursing Homes – Legal Action for Neglect
Are Bedsores a Sign of Nursing Home Neglect?
Bedsores—also known as pressure ulcers or pressure sores—are preventable injuries that develop when immobile patients aren’t properly turned or cared for. In nursing homes, the appearance of Stage III or Stage IV bedsores almost always signals neglect. DRS Law’s Nashville elder abuse attorneys help families take swift legal action against facilities that allow these painful, dangerous injuries to occur.
Why Do Bedsores Happen?
Bedsores develop when a person is left in the same position for too long—often because staff fail to reposition at-risk residents every few hours, as required by care standards. Those with mobility issues, paralysis, or dementia are most vulnerable.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) classify Stage III and IV pressure ulcers as “Never Events”—injuries that should never occur with proper care and attention.
Complications From Bedsores Can Be Life-Threatening
Pressure ulcers can quickly progress from red, irritated skin to open wounds exposing muscle or bone. Serious complications include:
- Infections (cellulitis, sepsis, bone infection)
- Severe pain and suffering
- Need for surgery (debridement, skin grafts, or even amputation)
- Permanent disability or death
Families often ask: “Can I sue a nursing home for bedsores or falls?” The answer is yes—these injuries are often direct evidence of neglect and can support a lawsuit for damages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bedsore Lawsuits
Are bedsores a sign of nursing home neglect?
Yes. Severe bedsores (Stage III or IV) almost always result from inadequate care. Prompt legal action can help protect your loved one and hold the facility accountable.
Can bedsores lead to wrongful death claims?
Absolutely. If a loved one dies due to complications from pressure ulcers, you may have a wrongful death case.
How do I report nursing home neglect in Tennessee?
Contact the Tennessee Department of Health and consult a bedsore lawyer for help preserving evidence and pursuing a lawsuit.
Take Urgent Action—Protect Your Family Member Now
If your loved one developed bedsores in a nursing home, remove them from danger and contact DRS Law immediately. We will review the case for free, help you report abuse, and fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.