Bed sores — also called pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers — are one of the clearest signs of nursing home neglect. These painful wounds form when residents are left in the same position for too long without being turned or repositioned. If left untreated, bed sores can lead to severe infections, sepsis, and even wrongful death.
At Nancy Iler Law Firm, we represent families throughout Cleveland and Cuyahoga County whose loved ones have suffered preventable bed sores in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Our mission is to stop the neglect, get proper care for the resident, and hold facilities accountable for failing to protect vulnerable seniors.
Why Bed Sores Are a Sign of Neglect
Bed sores are almost always preventable when nursing homes follow proper care plans. Common causes of bed sores in Cleveland facilities include:
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Failure to reposition residents regularly (every 2 hours or as medically necessary)
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Understaffing that leaves residents unattended for long periods
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Lack of skin assessments or early intervention
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Failure to provide special mattresses, cushions, or equipment to relieve pressure
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Poor hygiene practices that leave skin wet or soiled
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Delayed medical treatment after a sore is discovered
These failures are violations of both state and federal standards of care.
The Stages of Bed Sores
Understanding the stages of pressure ulcers can reveal how long neglect may have been happening:
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Stage 1: Red, discolored skin that does not fade when pressed
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Stage 2: Blisters or open sores that damage the top layer of skin
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Stage 3: Deep wounds reaching into fat tissue
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Stage 4: Severe wounds exposing muscle or bone, high risk of sepsis
Stage 3 and Stage 4 sores typically indicate prolonged neglect and can be life-threatening.
The Dangers of Untreated Bed Sores
If bed sores are not treated quickly, they can result in:
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Severe pain and suffering
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MRSA or other serious infections
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Bone infections (osteomyelitis)
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Sepsis and septic shock
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Amputation or death
These complications are preventable when nursing homes provide proper care.
Your Legal Rights in Cleveland
Nursing homes are legally obligated to monitor residents for skin breakdown and implement plans to prevent bed sores. If your loved one developed bed sores because the facility failed to follow proper procedures, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical treatment and wound care
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Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
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Costs of relocating your loved one to a safer facility
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Wrongful death damages, if the sores contributed to their passing
Our firm investigates thoroughly, reviewing medical records, staffing logs, and facility protocols to build a strong case for justice.
Why Choose Nancy Iler Law Firm
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Medical Experience: Nancy Iler is a former registered nurse with first-hand knowledge of wound care and nursing standards.
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Decades of Advocacy: Over 30 years representing victims of nursing home neglect in Cleveland and across Ohio.
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Aggressive Representation: We fight nursing home corporations and their insurers for full accountability.
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No Upfront Fees: You pay nothing unless we secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleveland Nursing Home Bed Sores
Q: Are bed sores always preventable?
A: In most cases, yes. Proper repositioning, monitoring, and wound care should prevent pressure ulcers from developing or worsening.
Q: How do I know if neglect caused my loved one’s bed sores?
A: Our team reviews medical records, care plans, and staffing levels to determine whether the facility failed to meet its duty of care.
Q: What should I do if I notice bed sores on my loved one?
A: Seek immediate medical attention, take photographs, document your observations, and contact an attorney right away.
Q: How soon should I take legal action?
A: Ohio has strict deadlines for filing nursing home neglect claims, so it’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible.
Get Help from a Cleveland Nursing Home Bed Sore Lawyer
Bed sores are a sign that something has gone terribly wrong with a nursing home’s care. You have the right to demand answers and take action.
Call Nancy Iler Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced Cleveland nursing home bed sore attorney.