Bed sores — also called pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers — are one of the clearest warning signs of nursing home neglect. These painful wounds develop when residents are left in the same position for too long without proper care. Severe cases can lead to infection, sepsis, amputations, or wrongful death.
At Nancy Iler Law Firm, our experienced Cincinnati nursing home bed sore attorneys fight for residents and families who have been harmed by negligent care. We hold nursing homes accountable and work to ensure your loved one receives proper treatment and protection going forward.
Why Bed Sores Happen in Ohio Nursing Homes
Bed sores are largely preventable when nursing homes follow proper care protocols.
They often develop because of:
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Failure to reposition residents regularly (every 2 hours or as directed by care plans)
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Understaffing or inadequate supervision
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Failure to provide proper mattresses or cushions to relieve pressure points
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Poor hygiene practices that leave residents in wet or soiled bedding
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Delayed medical treatment when early-stage sores are detected
When facilities fail to prevent or treat bed sores, they can be held liable for the harm caused.
Stages of Bed Sores
Recognizing the stage of a bed sore helps determine how long it may have gone untreated:
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Stage 1: Red, discolored skin that does not lighten when pressed
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Stage 2: Open wound or blister
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Stage 3: Deep wound reaching into fat tissue
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Stage 4: Severe wound exposing muscle, tendon, or bone — extremely high risk of infection
Later-stage sores often indicate prolonged neglect or failure to intervene when the sore first appeared.
Complications of Untreated Bed Sores
If left untreated, pressure ulcers can lead to:
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Severe pain and suffering
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MRSA or staph infections
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Sepsis and septic shock
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Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
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Amputation or death
These are not just medical issues — they are legal issues when caused by nursing home neglect.
Legal Rights for Families in Cincinnati
Nursing homes in Ohio are required by law to perform regular skin assessments, provide pressure-relief measures, and implement care plans to prevent bed sores. If they fail to meet these standards, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical treatment and hospitalization
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Pain and suffering
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Rehabilitation costs or long-term care needs
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Wrongful death damages if the sores contributed to your loved one’s passing
Why Choose Nancy Iler Law Firm
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Medical Background: Nancy is a former registered nurse, giving her unique insight into wound care and nursing home protocols.
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Decades of Experience: Over 30 years advocating for victims of nursing home abuse and neglect.
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Aggressive Representation: We challenge negligent facilities and their insurers to get the justice your family deserves.
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Contingency Fee Representation: You pay nothing unless we secure a settlement or verdict for you.
Cincinnati Bed Sore Lawsuit FAQs
Q: Are bed sores always a sign of neglect?
A: While some medical conditions make residents more vulnerable, most bed sores are preventable with proper care. Failure to prevent or treat them often points to negligence.
Q: What evidence do I need for a case?
A: Photos of the sores, medical records, care plans, and witness statements are helpful. Our firm can subpoena facility records and consult medical experts to prove your case.
Q: How quickly should I act?
A: Immediately. Bed sores can worsen rapidly, and Ohio has strict deadlines for filing a claim. Contacting a lawyer early allows us to preserve evidence and protect your loved one.
Get Help from a Cincinnati Nursing Home Bed Sore Attorney
Your loved one deserves dignity, proper care, and protection from preventable injuries.
Call Nancy Iler Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced Cincinnati nursing home bed sore lawyer.