Few things are more upsetting than finding out that a loved one has developed bedsores while in the hospital. It can be distressing to think that your loved one has to now grapple with these painful and potentially debilitating wounds during their recovery. While bedsores can occur in various settings, their development in a hospital often raises concerns about the quality of care provided.
When you entrust a loved one to the care of a hospital, you expect them to receive the highest standard of medical attention. However, not all hospital stays result in positive outcomes. If you are in such a situation, it’s important to explore your options, which might involve filing a medical malpractice claim.
Immediate steps
If you notice bedsores on your loved one during their hospital stay, the first thing you should do is alert the medical staff about the issue immediately. Make sure the hospital staff you speak with document the condition. They should also initiate appropriate treatment, which may include:
- Repositioning the patient
- Improving the patient’s nutrition
- Applying specialized dressings on the wounds
You might also want to request a care plan review to help ensure your loved one’s condition doesn’t deteriorate any further. It’s also important that you keep detailed records of your loved one’s condition, including:
- Photographs of the sores
- Medical records
- Notes on the care they receive
Documentation is crucial if you decide to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
If you’re unhappy with the care your loved one has received, getting a second opinion from a different healthcare provider can be beneficial. This can offer you more perspectives on the situation and guidance on how to avoid additional issues.
There’s no denying that the development of bedsores in a hospital setting can be a sign of neglect or substandard care. In your predicament, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. Medical malpractice happens when the healthcare facility does not meet the expected standard of care, causing harm to your loved one.
Bedsores are a serious and often preventable complication of hospital care. If your loved one develops bedsores during their stay, you should take immediate action to address the issue. While ensuring that they receive proper care is the first priority, it is also important to explore the possibility of medical malpractice if the sores developed as a result of negligence.