Richmond Bed Sores Lawyer

Bed Sores Attorney in Richmond, VA

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are injuries to a victim’s skin and the tissues beneath it. This condition often affects individuals who are dealing with a medical issue that confines them to one space, such as a wheelchair or bed. Whether you or a loved one is suffering from bedsores due to negligence at a hospital near East Broad Street or a nursing home near Swan Lake, a Richmond bed sores lawyer can help you recover compensation.

Trust Your Loved One’s Bedsore Claim to Brooks & Baez

At Brooks & Baez, we understand that not all healthcare facilities fulfill their duty to keep you or a loved one safe from potential health complications, such as bedsores. If you suspect neglect or lack of care has caused a bedsore, we are here to fully investigate the case and hold the facility liable for any injuries sustained.

Since 2016, our experienced and bilingual team has helped thousands of families across the Commonwealth, and now we are here for you. While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, we are ready to aggressively seek full compensation on your behalf or the behalf of a loved one. 

Common Sites and Stages of a Bedsore in Richmond

Bedsores are a common sign of nursing home or care facility abuse or neglect. One study shows that two out of three nursing home or long-term care facility staff admit to committing this abuse or neglect that can result in bedsores.

Bedsores usually show up in common sites on the body, and it is important to stay vigilant if you suspect your loved one’s care facility is not taking the steps necessary to prevent these injuries. Common sites for bedsores include:

• Tailbone
• Buttocks
• Shoulder blades
• Spine
• Back of arms and legs that are in contact with the mattress or chair
• Hips
• Sides and back of the head
• Lower back

It is also a good idea to educate yourself about the stages of bedsores and the symptoms that occur at each stage. The four stages of bedsores in Richmond include:

• Stage 1. This mild stage affects only the top layer of skin. Typical symptoms include skin redness, burning, or itching, as well as possible pain. The spot will likely be firmer, softer, and warmer than the surrounding skin. If the spot does not lighten when you apply any amount of pressure, then less blood is reaching that area, and a bedsore is beginning to develop.
• Stage 2. This stage begins when the sore starts to impact the layer below the surface of your skin. Common symptoms include an open wound or blister that will most likely drain pus or clear fluid, as well as possible redness, swelling, and being warm to the touch.
• Stage 3. When the sore begins to affect the fat tissue below the skin’s layers, you have reached stage 3. Symptoms can include an almost crater-like sore that likely emits a foul odor. It may show certain signs of infection, such as pus, heat, red edges, or drainage. If the tissue has started to die around the edges of the sore, it will be black in color.
• Stage 4. This is the most serious stage of bedsores and can quickly turn life-threatening if not properly cared for. This stage of bedsore occurs when the muscles and ligaments have started being impacted by the injury. Symptoms can include a big and deep sore that is likely infected, skin that is turning black with red edges, draining pus, bad smells, and warmth. In these cases, muscles, tendons, or even bone may be visible. 

FAQs

Are Bedsores Linked to Nursing Home Negligence?

Yes, bedsores are most commonly linked to cases of nursing home negligence in Richmond and across the Commonwealth. However, only one out of every 24 cases of nursing home negligence is actually reported to the necessary authorities. If nursing home staff neglect a patient and do not turn them over and regularly move and clean them, bedsores can develop and quickly turn serious if neglected. 

What Complications Can Be Caused by a Bedsore?

There are many complications that can be caused by a bedsore. Individuals experiencing these issues can be subject to extreme pain and discomfort, and some complications can arise that are life-threatening. One common complication is gangrene, which occurs when blood flow in and around the sore becomes restricted. It can produce bacteria that deteriorate the surrounding tissue and turn the wound black or green.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bedsore Lawyer in VA?

In Virginia, the cost of hiring a bedsore lawyer will ultimately depend on the factors of your unique case. As no two attorneys are the same, they will treat the final cost analysis of your case differently. Common factors that can include these costs include the complexity and duration of your case and the skill level or experience of your lawyer. 

How Can a Bedsore Be Prevented?

Bedsores can be prevented through proper care and inspection of a patient’s skin. Nursing home staff need to make sure that their residents have dry skin, provide them with good skincare by washing them, keep them free of soiled bedclothes or garments, work to keep them moved, propped up, or repositioned on a regular basis, and make sure that the patient is receiving proper nutrition. 

Hire a Bedsores Lawyer Near You Today

There are few situations more upsetting than knowing your nursing home or the care facility in charge of caring for a loved one is neglecting or mistreating a family member. At Brooks & Baez, when you hire a bedsores lawyer from our firm, you are getting an experienced and compassionate advocate who will pursue the justice your loved one deserves. 

We are dedicated to protecting the rights of those suffering injuries and neglect. To learn more about our nursing home abuse and neglect services, contact our offices in Richmond today.