BEDSORES = NEGLECT
I hear it everyday: "I took care of Grandma at home and she was fine. But after only a few months in the Nursing Home, she had these awful Bedsores."
While any patient can get redness on spots, especially the heels and sacral area (near her bottom), ulcerated bedsores that allow one to see bone, muscle and sinew are a sure sign of neglect. (bedsores range from stage 1 to Stage 4, stage 4 is the worst)
Here is a link to evaluate nursing homes in your area. http://www.medicare.gov/Nursing/Overview.asp
Here are some steps you can take to evaluate your loved one's care in a nursing home:
1. Turn her over, or ask for a nurse to do so --look at the base of the back and her bottom for sores. If you see any take photos. If they are bandaged, come back and photograph during dressing change;
2. Look at her heels. (yes, take off the socks). Same drill as step 1.;
3. Keep a record of weight changes, paying close attention to drops which indicate malnutrition and dehydration;
4. Show up late in the the morning, has there been attention since last night?
5. Visit on weekends, and evening is possible.
6. If they may not be turning a bedridden loved on on 2 hour intervals, as required, consider sleeping over (if allowed) and journal activity;
7. Visit often-- the more family involvement and questions, the better care!
If you see bedsores or other signs of neglect that cause damage, infections like sepsis, or even death, please contact me at once!
