One of the most common signs of nursing home neglect is the development of bedsores. According to John Hopkins Medicine, bedsores often occur when an older person is not mobile or can no longer sense pain. They may occur along with neglect when the individual in another’s care is not turned or moved often enough.
If you discover bedsores on your loved one while he or she is in the care of a nursing home or other medical facility, understanding the degree of neglect via the appearance of the sores may help you understand the severity of the issue.
Stage one
A stage one bedsore may appear darker than the rest of the skin and show a reddish hue. The edges may look dry or flaky. The spot might feel warm or feverish to the touch. You might find these types of sores on the buttocks or the back.
Stage two
This stage of bedsore might be more discolored or appear bruised. The middle of the sore may appear blistered or open, and its edges may take on the same discoloration. This type of bedsore may appear after several weeks of neglect.
Stage three
As bedsores worsen or go unnoticed, the layers of derma below the skin start to take on serious damage. The sore may run with fluid, bleed and its edges might be discolored and flake off. At this point, the patient may experience moderate to severe pain from the sore.
Stage four
This is the most severe type of bedsore. The degradation of the skin may appear severe at this point, and infection is likely.
Proper skincare, positioning and nutrition can all help prevent bedsores. Immobile elderly persons are usually at the highest risk for neglect, but it can occur in other nursing home situations as well.