Development of Pressure Sores
Pressure Injury Lawyers
A pressure sore, also known as a bedsore, pressure ulcer, or decubitus ulcer, is an area of injured skin because of pressure onto that area. A pressure injury happens when force is applied onto the surface of the skin. This force can be a constant pressure on an area of skin or a dragging or shearing force between the skin and another surface. Pressure injuries usually occur over bony parts of the body such as hips, heels, tailbone, elbows, head and ankles. Moisture in these areas increases the risk of pressure sore development. Pressure sores can become life-threatening if they develop into a deep wound or become infected.
Our team of specialist medical negligence lawyers are experienced in acting for patients in medical negligence compensation claims involving pressure sores all around Australia. We understand the devastating effects of having suffered an injury or a worsened medical condition because of a negligently caused pressure sore.
We’ll be here for you every step of the way guiding you through the process in your medical negligence claim. We have the expert knowledge, expertise and a proven history needed to obtain outstanding results in all types of medical negligence compensation claims involving development and mismanagement or pressure sores and ulcers.
We’ll act for you in pressure injury medical negligence claim on a no win, no fee basis with no upfront costs. See our why choose us page for many more reasons as to why so many Australians choose Longton Compensation Lawyers over anyone else for their medical negligence compensation claim arising out of development of pressure sores and injuries.
What are the risk factors for developing pressure injuries?
Patients that are at risk of developing pressure injuries are those with:
A limited amount of mobility or a total inability to move, such as patients in wheelchairs or who are bedridden.
Prosthetic or artificial limbs, where the skin can be irritated due to poorly fitted prosthetics resulting in development of a pressure injuries.
Loss of sensation, as result of not being able to feel the pressure being applied to the skin.
Malnutrition, which reduces and slows down wound healing.
Fragile or thinner skin, such as the elderly.
Diabetes or vascular disease that results in decreased blood supply to areas of the body.
An inability or restricted ability to move certain parts of the body without assistance following surgery or because of other medical conditions.
Bowel and urinary incontinence.
What can be done to prevent pressure injuries?
The development of pressure injuries can be prevented through:
Careful observation of the skin through performance of regular skin integrity assessments.
Frequent repositioning of patients who cannot turn themselves.Keeping the skin clean, dry and clear of bodily fluids.
Moving and repositioning the patient frequently to avoid constant pressure on bony parts of the body.
Using foam wedges and pillows to help relieve pressure on bony parts of the body to redistribute pressure.
Maintaining a healthy diet to avoid malnutrition, which assists with wound healing.
Contact us today, and start with a free consultation by clicking "Make a Booking" to receive our preliminary expert advice.
Key Contacts
Jonathan Coyle
Founding Partner
Yevgeni Shkuratov
Partner | Accredited Personal Injury Law Specialist NSW