Caregiver Sentenced to Prison in Bed Sore Death Case

October 14, 2010 (Press-News.org) In a terrible case of nursing home abuse, Jean Rudolph died from untreated bed sores that had burrowed all the way to her bone. Rudolph, who previously taught others about care giving as a nursing educator, suffered for 22 days without sufficient care.

Effie Tutor, a caregiver at the Houghton Lakeview adult home in Washington, was sentenced to 31 months in prison for Rudolph's preventable death. Tutor's inaction included repeatedly ignoring residents while chatting on the Internet to her overseas boyfriend. Her attorney argued she was not properly trained and was afraid she would lose her job if she reported the bed sores .

The owner of the adult home, Patricia Goodwill, also pled guilty to second-degree criminal mistreatment. She admitted to causing an "imminent and substantial risk of death" by not providing adequate care for Rudolph. During the time Rudolph resided at the home it was cited for employing several caregivers with disqualifying felony convictions.

New York Nursing Homes Cited for Patient Neglect

Elder neglect is a nationwide problem. Earlier this year, Attorney General Andrew Cuomo announced 22 arrests in two cases as a result of putting hidden cameras in nursing homes across New York. In one case, staff at the Northwoods Rehabilitation and Extended Care Facility left an immobile resident in the same position for entire shifts over a period of six weeks. Staff also failed to treat the resident's bed sores or check for incontinence, and then falsified records to conceal the neglect.

Information About Bedsores

Bed sores are areas of damaged skin also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers. Bed sores develop as a result of sustained pressure cutting off circulation to the skin. The tissue dies without adequate blood supply and becomes severely infected. Patients confined to beds or wheelchairs are the most susceptible. Bed sores can develop and progress quickly, and frequently are difficult to heal. Fortunately, bed sores can be prevented by frequently moving patients and keeping skin clean and dry.

If your loved one is has bed sores it may be a sign that he or she is not receiving the necessary attention from caregivers. You should immediately speak to the care provider about your concerns. Patients are often unable to advocate for themselves because of diminished mental capacity or embarrassment.

If you suspect a loved one is experiencing bed sores as a result of elder neglect you should contact an experienced New York nursing home abuse lawyer about your rights and options. An attorney will advocate on your behalf to make sure that those responsible for your loved one's injuries or wrongful death are held accountable.

Article provided by The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C.
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