Kansas City Bedsore Attorneys

What Are Bedsores? 

Bedsores, or pressure ulcers, are wounds that occur on the skin and may cause damage to surrounding tissue. Bedsores are most common in people with limited mobility, as they result from prolonged pressure on the skin, often caused by lying or sitting in one position for an extended period of time. When left untreated, bedsores can advance to more serious stages. 

The four stages of bedsores include: 

• Stage 1: Stage 1 bedsores are the mildest stage. However, immediate treatment is still required to prevent stage 1 bedsores from progressing. At this stage, bedsores are characterized by red, blue, or purple-tinted skin that is often warm to the touch, as well as burning, pain, and itching.
• Stage 2: Stage 2 bedsores are slightly more advanced than stage 1 bedsores. At this stage, bedsores may appear as open scrapes or sores, or they may look like blisters. They are often accompanied by pain and discoloration of the skin.
• Stage 3: Like stage 2 bedsores, stage 3 bedsores typically appear as blisters, wounds, or scrapes. At this stage, the skin around the affected area will also have an indented, crater-like appearance caused by damage to the underlying tissue.
• Stage 4: Stage 4 bedsores are considered the most advanced type of bedsore. At this stage, the skin and surrounding area are severely damaged and bedsores will appear as a large, open wound. Stage 4 bedsores can also lead to bone, tendon, muscle, and joint damage, as well as an increased risk of serious or even fatal infection.

Warning Signs of Bedsores 

Some of the most common warning signs of bedsores include: 

People who are most at risk of bedsores include those who use wheelchairs, have limited mobility, or are bedridden. It is important that caregivers check individuals for warning signs and act appropriately when such signs are detected. Failing to address bedsores at an early stage can lead to progression, which puts the individual at risk of serious complications, health risks, and infections.

What Causes Bedsores?

Generally speaking, bedsores are caused by extended pressure on the skin. This is often the result of prolonged sitting and/or lying down. Elderly individuals and those with disabilities/mobility issues are at a heightened risk of developing bedsores, and nursing home staff and caregivers should respond accordingly. 

Here are the common causes:

• Pressure: Continuous pressure on any part of the body can limit blood flow to the tissues. This is most common in areas with little muscle or fat cushioning, such as the hips, tailbone, heels, and elbows. People who are bedridden or use a wheelchair are at higher risk.
• Friction: Friction occurs when the skin rubs against clothing or bedding, making fragile skin more susceptible to injury. This can happen when a person changes position or is moved by caregivers.
• Shear: Shear occurs when two surfaces move in opposite directions, such as when a person slides down in a bed or chair. This motion can cause the skin to stretch and tear the blood vessels, leading to tissue damage.
• Moisture: Excessive moisture from sweat, urine, or feces can weaken the skin and make it more vulnerable to damage. Incontinence or poor hygiene can exacerbate this problem.
• Poor Nutrition and Hydration: Adequate nutrition and hydration are essential for maintaining healthy skin. Malnutrition and dehydration can impair skin integrity and slow the healing process, increasing the risk of bedsores.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, vascular disease, and conditions affecting blood circulation, can increase the risk of developing bedsores. These conditions can impair blood flow and make the skin more susceptible to damage.
• Limited Mobility: People with limited mobility, such as those who are paralyzed, in a coma, or recovering from surgery, are at a higher risk of developing bedsores. The inability to change positions frequently increases the likelihood of prolonged pressure on certain areas of the body.
• Age: Elderly individuals are at a higher risk for bedsores due to thinner skin, reduced elasticity, and decreased blood flow. Additionally, older adults are more likely to have conditions that limit their mobility and impair skin health.
• Weight Loss: Significant weight loss can reduce the amount of cushioning over bony areas, increasing the risk of pressure ulcers. This is common in individuals with chronic illnesses or those who are bedridden.
• Smoking: Smoking can decrease blood flow and reduce oxygen delivery to tissues, impairing the skin's ability to heal and increasing the risk of bedsores.

At the Law Office of Tom Wagstaff Jr., our team knows how to effectively prove these types of claims. Our Kansas City bedsore lawyers have the experience, resources, and willingness to take cases to trial whenever necessary. You can rely on our firm to fight tirelessly for every penny you are owed, along with the justice you deserve.