Pressure ulcers (also called bedsores) are preventable injuries that often develop in patients who are immobile or have limited ability to change positions. When these injuries occur due to a lapse in care, it may indicate medical negligence.
If a pressure ulcer was caused by medical negligence, and you or one of your loved ones was the victim, you may have grounds for a legal claim. A Fort Lauderdale medical malpractice lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your injury.
What to Do If a Pressure Ulcer Was Caused by a Medical Mistake
If you believe you or someone you care about developed a pressure ulcer due to substandard medical care, follow these steps:
- Document the injury: Take clear photographs of the ulcer and note its size, appearance, and any changes over time. In addition, record any related symptoms such as pain, swelling, or drainage.
- Keep detailed records of care received: Write down when and how often caregivers repositioned you or your loved one or checked the affected area. Include any medications, treatments, or interventions that were provided.
- Obtain medical records: Request all relevant documents from the hospital, nursing facility, or home care provider. These records will show the level of care you or your loved one received and can reveal gaps or delays in treatment.
- Report concerns in writing: Submit a formal complaint to the healthcare facility or quality assurance team. A written report creates an official record of your concerns and can help establish a timeline of events.
- Consult an attorney: Our lawyers can review your case and guide you through the process of filing a medical malpractice claim.
What Types of Medical Mistakes Cause Pressure Ulcers?
Pressure ulcers are often preventable with proper care, but certain errors in healthcare settings increase the risk of these injuries. Such mistakes include:
- Failure to reposition patients regularly: Immobile patients are at the highest risk for bedsores. Skipping scheduled repositioning leaves them exposed to prolonged pressure on vulnerable areas.
- Ignoring early signs of skin damage: Redness, warmth, or changes in skin texture often appear before a full ulcer develops. Failing to detect these signs allows minor issues to escalate.
- Inadequate nutrition and hydration: Proper nutrition and fluid intake are critical to skin health. Neglecting these basic needs can weaken tissue and make patients more susceptible to ulcers.
- Not using pressure–relieving devices: Special mattresses, cushions, and pads distribute weight evenly. Neglecting these devices can contribute to pressure ulcer formation.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Pressure Ulcer Caused by Mistake?
Several parties may bear responsibility when a pressure ulcer results from negligence, including:
- Nurses and nursing assistants: These caregivers monitor patients’ skin condition, reposition them, and ensure proper hygiene. Lapses in these duties can cause bedsores.
- Doctors: Physicians oversee care plans and prescribe interventions. Failure to act on warning signs or supervise care properly may constitute negligence.
- Hospitals and long–term care facilities: Facilities can be held accountable for systemic failures, including understaffing, insufficient training, or a lack of proper equipment.
- Home healthcare providers: Agencies or individual caregivers may be liable if they fail to follow professional standards and contribute to preventable injuries.
Our lawyers can investigate your case and gather evidence to establish fault.
How Do You Prove Fault in a Medical Malpractice Case?
To prove that a pressure ulcer resulted from negligence, you must show that the healthcare provider failed to meet the accepted standard of care and that this failure directly caused the injury. Medical records, expert testimony, and evidence of damages can support your claim.
Our attorneys can collect the evidence needed to prove that you or your loved one was the victim of inadequate medical care.
How Can a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Help Me?
Our attorneys can provide guidance and representation throughout the legal process. Specifically, our team can:
- Evaluate your case: We can determine whether negligence contributed to the pressure ulcer.
- Gather evidence: We can collect medical records, expert opinions, and documentation to prove liability.
- Communicate with insurers and providers: We can handle all correspondence with insurance companies and healthcare providers to protect your interests.
- Negotiate a settlement: We can pursue fair compensation through negotiation.
- Represent you: If settlement negotiations fail, we can take your case to court.
How Long Does It Take for Pressure Ulcer Damage to Occur?
Pressure ulcers can develop quickly, sometimes within hours of prolonged pressure. The speed at which they emerge depends on factors such as:
- Mobility: Patients who are unable to move independently are more vulnerable.
- Overall health: Circulation, skin integrity, and immune function affect patients’ risk.
- Nutrition and hydration: Malnourished or dehydrated patients’ skin tends to be less resilient.
- Monitoring: Regular checks are necessary to prevent the development of ulcers.
Even a short delay in care can result in severe ulcers and complications, which is why monitoring and intervention are so important.
What Are the Early Warning Signs of a Pressure Ulcer?
The early symptoms of a pressure ulcer include:
- Red or discolored skin
- Swelling or warmth
- Tenderness or pain
- Skin texture changes
- Blistering or open sores
If a healthcare professional fails to notice these symptoms on time, you may be able to hold them financially accountable.
Speak to a Medical Malpractice Attorney Today
If you or one of your family members has developed a pressure ulcer due to negligence, you have the right to take action. A medical malpractice attorney from Anidjar & Levine can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and pursue compensation on your behalf.
Book a free case evaluation to discuss your legal options today.
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