Louisville Bedsores Lawyer

Louisville Bedsores Attorney

Bedsores, also known as decubitus ulcers, can become an issue in nursing homes. When they develop and are left untreated, bedsores can cause pain and suffering and indicate neglect. In this scenario, it is advisable to consult with an experienced Louisville bedsores lawyer who can guide you through the legal process to seek justice.

Why Choose Pleasant Law, PLLC?

At Pleasant Law, PLLC, we have a proven track record of success in cases like yours. We can conduct a thorough investigation by gathering witness statements and relevant evidence, including medical records. We understand that the law related to nursing home abuse can be complex, so we are here to help you understand and navigate the often-complicated legal system. We are here to support you, protect your rights, and work hard to get you and your loved one the justice and compensation you deserve.

Understanding Bedsores

Bedsores are sores that develop on the skin due to pressure from laying or sitting in one position for an extended period of time. Some of the common areas where bedsores occur are on the hip bone or heel. Residents of nursing homes, particularly the elderly who have limited mobility and are confined to a bed or wheelchair, are at heightened risk of developing bedsores. Bedsores typically evolve in four stages:

• First, the skin will become red and/or warm. There may be some irritation in the area, such as pain or itching.
• Second, the sore opens and becomes a wound or a blister with more discoloration.
• Third, if left untreated, the sore can become deeper and even expose body fat, which can affect the surrounding tissue.
• The final stage is the most severe stage, where the infection has spread to the muscle and bone. Osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone, can lead to chronic health infection, or sepsis, which can be life-threatening.

Causes of Bedsores in Nursing Homes

In most cases, bedsores are preventable, especially severe ones. If a resident (or multiple residents) in a nursing home experiences bedsores, it is typically because of poor practices in the facility or negligence. Common causes of bedsores in nursing homes include:

• Improper positioning of the residents. Those who are immobile require proper and regular rotation and repositioning to alleviate pressure on certain body parts.
• Improper nutrition. If the residents are not fed and hydrated properly, this can increase the risk of bedsores as their bodies do not have the fuel and energy they need to protect and heal themselves.
• Lack of cleanliness. When conditions are unsanitary, this can lead to infections.
• Negligence. Bedsores can be an effect of understaffing, lack of training, or failure of duty. Any of these can cause workers to neglect important parts of their daily routine, increasing the risk of bedsores.

Damages for Bedsores

Nursing homes are responsible for properly caring for individuals, which means following health and safety standards, when someone develops bedsores while in a nursing home’s care, this can be a sign of negligence, abuse, and a breach of duty.

If your loved one suffered bed sores due to negligence at a nursing home, they may be entitled to financial compensation. You have a right to seek legal action if the facility does not meet its standard of care. The damages you can seek include:

• Medical expenses. This includes any expense needed to recover from the bedsores, including surgery, rehabilitation, and hospital visits.
• Pain and suffering. This includes the physical pain and emotional turmoil your loved one suffered as a result of the ordeal.
• Punitive damages. Punitive damages vary by jurisdiction but can be sought in extreme cases where the responsible party operated in gross negligence.

What to Do If a Loved One Suffered Bedsores

If your loved one suffered bedsores at a nursing home, there are steps you can take to seek recompense. First, immediately seek medical attention. Second, be sure to document all evidence, including when the bedsores were discovered, how severe they were, and any notes and communication from the doctor. You also want to keep a record of any communication you had with the nursing home.

File a complaint to report the neglect so an investigation can be conducted. Be sure to hire an attorney in louisville who can advocate on your behalf to fight for the optimal outcome and hold the negligent party responsible.

FAQs

What Is the Average Settlement for Bedsores?

The average settlement for bedsore claims varies depending on factors like severity, medical costs, and facility negligence. When bedsores lead to a wrongful death, the settlement amounts may be higher. The settlement amounts are intended to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. An attorney can help you understand the value of your case.

Are Bedsore Claims Hard to Win?

Although bedsore cases can be difficult in Kentucky, they are frequently successful when supported by substantial evidence. Proving negligence, which means showing that the nursing home did not provide appropriate care, is essential to success. Photographs of the wounds, testimony from professionals, and medical records would all support a claim. Tangible and extensive documentation increases the likelihood of a favorable settlement.

Can You File a Claim for Bedsores?

If bedsores are caused by medical misconduct or neglect in a nursing home, you may file an action for damages. Since bedsores are frequently avoidable with the right care, their existence may be a sign of carelessness, a lack of staff, or insufficient medical attention. Claims may be filed against the facility to recover punitive damages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

How Long Does It Take to Win a Bedsore Claim?

The amount of time a bedsore claim takes varies based on various factors. The intricacy of the case, the gathering of evidence, settlement negotiations, and court scheduling are some of the variables that can impact duration. Cases that necessitate going to trial may take longer than those that are able to settle out of court.

Contact Pleasant Law, PLLC to Get Help with Bedsores Cases

Suppose your loved one suffered bedsores while under nursing home care. You deserve justice. Pleasant Law, PLLC can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to get started.