Monday, December 23, 2013


Decubitus ulcers are also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, and occur far too frequently.   A decubitus ulcer is defined as a localized injury to the skin and underlying tissue that usually occurs on bony parts of the body where pressure has been applied for a period of time.  The most common areas where decubitus ulcers occur are the tail bone, buttocks, back of heels, elbows and shoulder blades.  Depending on how the patient is positioned they may also occur on the ear, pelvis, hip, knee and ankles. 

The CDC released an article which found that 159,000 nursing home residents, or approximately 11%, were suffering from decubitus ulcers.  Decubitus ulcers are defined by stages, and the CDC found that the most common stage suffered by the residents were Stage II.  In this stage the ulcer may expand into deeper layers of the skin, and may appear as a shallow crater.  The skin may begin to die or become damaged beyond repair in this stage.  (For a more in depth look at the four stages of decubitus ulcers, please see the Nursing Home page on our website.)  

Decubitus ulcers may not only be painful, but they could be fatal.  Because the wound is open, the risk of infection is high.   If bacteria spread throughout the body via the bloodstream, which is known as sepsis, this could pave the way for potentially fatal complications. 


These claims are complicated and challenging, and you need a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer to evaluate your claim.  We have seen the pain caused by this form of nursing home neglect and are prepared to answer your questions.  So if you or a family member is suffering pain from decubitus ulcers or has died from infection related to decubitus ulcers contact either Attorney Douglas V. Stoehr or Attorney Aaron Ling.  Please contact us at (814) 946-4100, or see us on our website at www.stoehrlaw.com.  

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