Protecting Your Loved Ones from Nursing Home Abuse: Bedsores
Compassionate Support for Bedsore & Nursing Home Abuse Victims in Virginia
Nursing home abuse and neglect is becoming alarmingly common. According to the Nursing Home Abuse Guide, more than 2 million cases are reported every year, and nearly 1 out of every 10 elderly residents will face some form of elder abuse or neglect. A major cause of this epidemic is the fact that many nursing homes are incredibly understaffed, leaving many residents with inadequate care that frequently leads to dangerous living conditions and severe injuries.
At Obenshain Law Group, our Harrisonburg nursing home abuse attorneys will fight on behalf of your elderly loved one if he or she was neglected and developed bedsores as a result. You put your trust in nursing home staff to care for your loved one and have a right to take legal action when that trust is broken, and their well-being is compromised.
Contact the team at Obenshain Law Group at (540) 318-7360 to schedule a free case review with one of our Harrisonburg bedsores and nursing home abuse lawyers!
Understanding the Causes of Bedsores in Nursing Homes
Bedsores—also referred to as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers—are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue typically caused by having to remain in the same position for a prolonged amount of time. This is particularly common in elderly residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities who have an issue with mobility. When a nursing home is understaffed, residents who cannot move on their own might not get the assistance they need to get up and move around and, as a result, spend too much time in bed or in their wheelchairs, resulting in bedsores. Most frequently, these are found on the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone or buttocks.
If a bedsore develops, it is important to make sure that it is pointed out to the medical staff. They can be difficult to treat and complications may develop including cellulitis (infection of the skin and connected soft tissues), bone and joint infection and in rare instances, sepsis.
There are other causes of bedsores, however, such as friction damage, which can occur when there is friction against aged skin and another surface. For example, if an elderly resident needs to be moved and the nursing home staff is not careful, friction can occur, damaging the resident’s skin.
It is crucial for basic precautions and measures to be taken in order to prevent elderly residents from developing bedsores. Staff members should advise residents who can move on their own to change their position about every 15 minutes to avoid sustaining these painful injuries. If a resident cannot move without assistance, nursing home staff should move him or her every couple of hours. If staff fails to take these actions and bedsore develops, it may be grounds for a lawsuit.
How Our Harrisonburg Bedsores and Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers Can Assist You
- Comprehensive Legal Representation: We possess extensive experience in handling cases related to bedsores and nursing home abuse. We understand the complexities of these situations and are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation. We will thoroughly investigate your case's circumstances, gathering evidence and creating a strong foundation for your claim.
- Expertise in Laws and Regulations: Navigating the legal landscape of Harrisonburg requires a deep understanding of local laws and regulations about nursing home facilities. We are well-versed in these matters, ensuring that your case is handled with the expertise necessary to achieve the best possible outcome. We stay updated on any changes or updates to relevant laws, ensuring that your case is approached with the most current legal knowledge.
- Thorough Case Evaluation: We will assess the extent of the harm caused by bedsores and nursing home abuse, identifying liable parties and establishing a clear course of action. This meticulous approach allows us to tailor our legal strategy to the unique circumstances of your situation, maximizing the chances of a successful resolution.
- Aggressive Advocacy for Your Rights: Bedsores and nursing home abuse cases demand aggressive advocacy to ensure justice is served. We are prepared to stand up against negligent nursing homes, caregivers, and other responsible parties. We will tirelessly fight for your rights, seeking the compensation you rightfully deserve for the pain, suffering, and medical expenses resulting from the abuse or neglect.
- Compassionate Support for Victims and Families: We understand the emotional toll that nursing home abuse may take on victims and their families. We ensure you receive legal support and the empathy and understanding needed during this challenging time. We are committed to providing care and sensitivity to you through the legal process.
- Negotiation and Litigation Expertise: We are skilled negotiators seeking fair settlements when possible. However, if a satisfactory agreement cannot be reached, we will take your case to court, utilizing our litigation expertise to present a compelling argument.
Reach Out to Our Harrisonburg Bedsores and Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers Today
At Obenshain Law Group, our team of Harrisonburg nursing home abuse attorneys has handled thousands of personal injury cases, including many nursing home and assisted living cases, throughout Virginia, including nearly two hundred jury trials. Our experience and proven history of success will be used to your advantage to ensure you are able to secure compensation on behalf of your loved one. There is no excuse for an elderly resident to develop bedsores because they are not being appropriately cared for. If you observed bedsores on your loved one, do not hesitate to reach out to us to discuss the possibility of legal action against the responsible party. The compensation you obtain can cover ongoing medical care, pain and suffering, and more, but you have to act now.
Contact our Harrisonburg bedsores and nursing home abuse attorney today at (540) 318-7360 to schedule your free case review and learn more about what we can do for you and your elderly loved one.
