Bluffton Bedsore Lawsuit Attorneys
Standing Up for Nursing Home Residents in Bluffton, SC
Bedsores—also known as pressure ulcers—are one of the most common and troubling signs of nursing home neglect. These painful injuries develop when a person is left in the same position for too long, cutting off circulation to the skin and underlying tissue. Sadly, they are most often seen in elderly nursing home residents who are bedridden or have limited mobility.
At Bauer & Metro, P.C., we believe that no senior in a Bluffton nursing home should suffer from preventable bedsores. Our nursing home abuse attorneys are committed to holding negligent facilities accountable and pursuing justice for families. If your loved one developed a serious bedsore, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and more.
Call (843) 920-2844 today for a free consultation with our Bluffton bedsore lawsuit attorneys.
Why Bedsores Signal Nursing Home Neglect
A properly staffed and well-managed nursing home has protocols in place to prevent bedsores. Residents who are unable to move themselves should be repositioned every 2 to 4 hours to relieve pressure points, inspected daily for early signs of skin breakdown, and provided with special mattresses when necessary.
When these steps are skipped, residents are put at risk of:
- Stage 1 Bedsores: Red, irritated skin that may feel warm to the touch
- Stage 2 Bedsores: Open wounds or blisters
- Stage 3 Bedsores: Deep ulcers reaching muscle tissue
- Stage 4 Bedsores: Severe wounds exposing bone, sometimes leading to sepsis or amputation
By the time a bedsore reaches an advanced stage, it is clear that it was left untreated for days—sometimes weeks—indicating a pattern of neglect.
The Dangers of Untreated Bedsores
Many nursing homes try to downplay the seriousness of bedsores, but they can be life-threatening if ignored. Untreated bedsores can lead to:
- Bacterial infections, including MRSA or sepsis
- Amputations caused by severe infection
- Tissue, muscle, and bone damage that limits mobility
- Chronic pain and long-term disability
Families should take any report of a bedsore seriously and seek medical attention immediately. Then, contact an experienced bedsore attorney to investigate whether negligence played a role.
Residents Most at Risk
While any nursing home resident can develop bedsores, certain individuals face a much higher risk, including those with:
- Severe mobility issues or paralysis
- Chronic health conditions such as diabetes or cancer
- Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
- Malnutrition, dehydration, or weight problems
- Incontinence or fragile, thin skin
These residents require a higher level of care and monitoring. When facilities fail to provide it, the consequences can be devastating.
How Nursing Homes Should Prevent Bedsores
Preventing bedsores is not complicated, but it does require proper staffing and attention to detail. Bluffton nursing homes should:
- Reposition immobile residents every 2–4 hours
- Provide mattresses that reduce pressure points
- Keep residents clean, dry, and well-nourished
- Check skin daily for early signs of breakdown
- Apply lotion to vulnerable areas to protect skin
- Offer mobility or physical therapy programs when possible
Failure to follow these basic measures is inexcusable. Filing a lawsuit can not only provide financial relief for your family but also push nursing homes to improve safety standards and protect other residents from harm.
How Bauer & Metro, P.C. Can Help
Our Bluffton bedsore lawsuit attorneys take a comprehensive approach to nursing home neglect cases. When you work with us, we will:
- Investigate the facility’s care records to determine whether staff followed proper procedures
- Gather medical evidence to show how the bedsore progressed and its impact on your loved one’s health
- Consult with medical experts to establish a link between the nursing home’s neglect and the injury
- Pursue full compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses
- Advocate for systemic change so other residents are better protected
We handle these cases with compassion and determination, ensuring your family’s voice is heard.
Contact Our Bluffton Bedsore Lawyers Today
Bauer & Metro, P.C. is dedicated to helping families navigate nursing home abuse and neglect claims in Hilton Head Island, including those related to bedsores and infected pressure ulcers. Your loved one deserves optimal care and comfort each day. When nursing homes fall short of their duty, we are here to advocate on your behalf and fight for justice.
If your loved one developed bedsores in a Bluffton nursing home, assisted living facility, or rehabilitation center, don’t wait to get help. Evidence can disappear quickly, and facilities may attempt to cover up signs of neglect.
We will fight for justice for your loved one and work to hold negligent nursing homes accountable.
Call Bauer & Metro, P.C. at (843) 920-2844 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.