Many serious diseases could take you straight to bed for long periods of time. While the patient needs to struggle against the disease, there are also the consequences of staying in one position for several days. One of the most common results of this immobility is bedsores.
Bedsores or decubitus ulcers (as they are also known) are areas of the skin that break down when the person stays in one position for long periods of time, without shifting the weight. In the affected area, the blood supply is noticeably reduced by the pressure against the skin or muscle. The tiny blood vessels that nourish the skin and supply oxygen are closed, resulting in the death of the tissue. The severity ranges from minimal, affecting only the skin surface, to quite severe when the decubitus ulcer reaches down to muscle and bone.
Ulcers usually start as reddened skin but they worsen as days go by. They grow into blisters, which eventually may become sores and finally, craters. Commonly, bedsores are located over bony prominences like elbows, hips, heels, ankles, back, shoulders and others.
Frequently, elders are the most affected ones by sores because their skin is thinner and more fragile. In their cases, bedsores can develop in a matter of hours. Frequently, decubitus can happen during hospitalization, in nursing homes or in community settings.
This type of ulcers could be well-managed if they were prevented. Elders who reside in nursing homes usually suffer from the development of bedsores. Decubitus just need the right nourishment and cleanliness measures to be avoided. Remember that the development of bedsores only indicate the lack of appropriate care and the presence of huge problems in the attention given to the patient. If the cares delivered are the adequate and the bedsores still appear, prompt and effective attention will not let them progress into huge wounds. Federal Law states that there is no medical valid reason for a bedsore to develop into a deep open wound. If so, the victim or his/her relatives can look for legal assistance with a specialist and if merited, they are able to set the basis for a civil lawsuit against the institution that had been taking care of the patient.