Warning Signs of Bedsores to Watch For

Pressure sores, often known as bedsores, are common in patients who are bed- or wheelchair-bound. A bedsore occurs when the skin presses against something which limits the blood flow to the skin. This pressure doesn’t even have to be very much; it just has to lessen the blood flow to that part of the body. This kind of pressure typically happens in places which are not well-padded, such as an elbow, the shoulder blades or the tailbone, but it can occur on any place on the body. 

Many people in nursing homes have a higher risk of developing bedsores because of immobility, a lack of sensory perception and other health conditions which affect blood flow. It is important to watch for the early warning signs of bedsores if you have a family member in specialized care. The Mayo Clinic recommends watching for these symptoms: 

• Unusual changes in skin color

• Skin which feels hot or cool to the touch when compared to another area

• Draining of the skin

• Tender areas

• Swelling

• Textural change in the skin 

The earlier a person gets treatment for the bedsore, the better the chance for healing. Mild bedsores may not appear to be dangerous, but it is the damage under the surface of the skin that you cannot see which is really threatening. Nursing homes have many remedies to relieve pressure on different body parts when a person is bedridden or in a wheelchair for long periods of time. 

If your loved one in a nursing home has already been injured by a bedsore, you may want to talk to an attorney who can discuss your situation and find the best possible outcome. If the cause of the bedsore was negligence of the nursing home, then that entity should cover the care required for healing. Take your concerns to an advocate who can help you assess the situation and find a solution.