Residents of nursing homes should feel secure knowing that their caregivers are protecting them and keeping them safe from harm. Yet nursing homes do not always take care of patients the way they should and people are injured. Recently, Levin & Perconti filed a lawsuit on behalf of a former nursing home resident who suffered injuries due to negligence. The man was a resident of Jackson Square Skilled Nursing & Living Center when he was severely hurt. The man developed several pressure ulcers which became infected and required medical attention.
Pressure Ulcers May Indicate Neglect
Pressure ulcers, also called bedsores, are painful skin irritations that are often caused by something rubbing on an area of the skin for an extended period of time. Pressure ulcers are an indication that a patient is not being properly cared for in a nursing home. They can and should be avoided because in the elderly they can progress quickly into a dangerous infection. There are four stages of pressure ulcers. Stage I ulcers are red marks that may be painful. Caregivers should be trained to watch for the start of bedsores and prevent them from occurring. If the start of a bedsore is apparent it should be treated immediately and every effort must be made to ensure that it does not worsen.
Nursing Home Care Act
The Illinois Nursing Home Care Act applies to nursing home and care facilities in the state. The legislation provides important guidelines that must be met when caring for patients in nursing homes. Nursing home management must properly train the staff regarding proper care and must have procedures in place to immediately report and treat any medical issues, including pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers most often occur to patients who are bedridden or cannot easily move on their own. For this reason, the staff must continually turn and reposition the patient so as to avoid pressure sores from occurring. When adequate care and supervision is not provided, the result may be serious injuries such as bedsores.
Nursing Home Neglect
It is difficult to think of our loved ones suffering at the hands of a caregiver. Nursing homes are supposed to provide the care that our relatives require; regardless of how much time is required. Nursing home neglect cases are much more common than most people realize. In addition to bedsores some of the common signs of nursing home neglect include bruises, broken bones, head injuries, and choking. Many of the injuries happen because of falls due to improper supervision. Regardless of the reasons, neglect in nursing homes is not acceptable. Many times neglect goes unreported. If your loved one was hurt because of nursing home neglect you need to report the problem and take steps to make sure that your relative is protected from further injuries. Your family may be entitled to money for medical expenses and other damages caused by the injury. Contact the skilled legal team at Levin & Perconti to discuss your case.