New Study Shows Bedsores Linked to Patient Fatalities

November 27, 2012

New study shows bedsores linked to patient fatalities

When we come to the conclusion that we must turn over the care of a loved one to a nursing home, it is common for that difficult decision to be accompanied by fears about his or her continued well-being. One of the dangers associated with nursing home care is the development of bedsores, also referred to as pressure ulcers. Recently, a new study revealed that the consequences of these injuries can be far more serious than previously understood.

Bedsores occur when the tissue and skin on an individual are injured, typically due to extended periods in one position. When someone has difficulty moving on their own, and they are kept in one place for a long period of time, pressure ulcers are more likely to develop. Consequently, these injuries can be common in hospitals and nursing homes.

Recently, UCLA's School of Nursing conducted a study to analyze the effects of bedsores. The research revealed that there is a link between bedsores, longer hospital stays and patient fatalities.

The researchers examined data from over 51,000 Medicare patients who were hospitalized between 2006 and 2007 in the U.S. They concluded that there was an increased chance that an elderly patient would die during the time they were hospitalized if he or she developed bedsores. Patients who developed bedsores were also found to be more likely to have to return to the hospital within 30 days after being released.

Of the individuals studied, approximately 4.5 percent developed bedsores while they were in the hospital. Of those, the study revealed that 16.7 percent acquired new pressure ulcers elsewhere on the body while they were hospitalized. The most common areas for patients to develop a pressure ulcer were on the:
-Tailbone
-Sacrum
-Hip
-Buttocks
-Heals

According to the study, the individuals most at risk of developing bedsores were those who were already suffering from a chronic disease, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pulmonary disease and obesity.

New Jersey nursing homes

While the UCLA study focused on patients in hospitals, bedsores are also dangerous injuries for elderly residents in nursing homes. With a growing number of senior citizens in New Jersey and across the country entering nursing homes, ensuring proper care is provided to them is more important than ever.

Before placing a relative in a nursing home, it is important to review inspection data from the residence. According to a review of inspection data from the New Jersey Department of Health, from February 2011 through July 2012, 60 nursing homes -- or 18 percent -- in the state had over 10 violations.

If your loved one has developed pressure ulcers while in residence at a nursing home, it is possible he or she is not receiving the proper standard of care. A skilled, New Jersey nursing home abuse lawyer will be able to advise you on the best course of action to protect your loved one.

Article provided by Tomes & Hanratty, PC
Visit us at http://www.tomeslaw.com/