Bed Sore – Stage Three, Signs and Suggestions: Free Consultation

The third stage of the bed sore progression brings about significant changes and a more dramatic wound. Unlike stage two, where the wound only extended into the top layer of the skin, stage three has a much more extended skin break. The breakdown in the skin now extends through the second layer of the skin, known as the dermis, into the fat and subcutaneous tissue. Bed sore lawyers say that the wounds in stage three are noticeably deeper than in prior stages.

How to Care for a Stage Three Bed Sore

new jersey philadelphia Bed Sore lawyers stage three signs suggestionsMany of the general treatment suggestions from previous bed sore phases remain similar in stage three. Once again, it is essential to keep pressure off of the pressure sore. We stress the importance of frequently changing positions and alleviating the pressure between the wound and outer surfaces, such as wheelchairs and beds. Cleaning the sore and maintaining good hygiene is once again crucial to the healing of a pressure sore. Yellow shaded dead tissue, known as slough, may appear within the wound which is a main reason cleanliness carries such importance at this stage. Our professionals also advise that maintaining a healthy diet during stage three is important to strengthen the skin. Wounds that are present in stage three almost always call for additional care and treatment. Special cleaning, antibiotic medication, or specially created beds and mattresses may be suggested by a physician to help limit pressure and promote recovery.

Bed Sore Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a loved one have recently suffered from a pressure sore which you attribute to neglect or mistreatment, you probably would like to speak with a bed sore attorney. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Bed Sores – Stage 2, What to Do: Free Consultation

Bed sore lawyers urge patients to be on the look out for the deterioration of skin as a signal that a bed sore condition is worsening. Stage one of the pressure sore process begins with some slight changes to the skin that may not be easy to notice and therefore may not cause patients to seek medical attention. Stage two is more noticeable due to breaking in the top layer of skin. This should be apparent because a shallow open sore will develop.

How to Cope with the Second Stage of Bed Sores

new jersey philadelphia Bed Sore lawyers explain bedsores stage 2It is essential that people keep pressure off of the open sore in order to limit damage and irritation to the skin. Patients should also maintain good hygiene and a strong and nutritious diet. Although cleanliness is important, it is essential to delicately clean and dry the wound as opposed to a vigorous rubbing motion which could cause further damage. There are many important vitamins and nutrients which contribute to healthy skin. People should be sure to have a sufficient intake of protein, calories, zinc, iron, and vitamins A and C.

After consulting with your doctor, a number of possible treatments may be presented. It is sometimes proposed that patients clean their wound only with saline solution, as opposed to a more conventional soap and water technique. Secondly, patients may be required to check for signs of wound healing with each change of their dressing in order to monitor progress of the bed sore. We believe that most doctors will also be highly concerned with infection during stage two. If a wound seems to be infected, rather than healing, a consultation with a physician is necessary to re-evaluate treatment and possible causes of the problem.

Bed Sore Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a loved one has recently suffered from a pressure sore which you attribute to neglect or mistreatment, it is possible that you would like to speak with a bed sore attorney. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Nursing Home Neglect – CEO Pockets Money at the Expense of Elderly

A majority of nursing homes and long-term care facilities are owned by for profit corporations. This means that there is an owner, who unfortunately is often in this business only for the money and not for the care of the sick and elderly. When corners are cut and staff is underpaid to add to the wealth of the corporation, nursing home neglect is bound to occur. It is a sad reality that most often the best care is given in the non-profit homes because all of the funding is put towards care and not in the pocket of a greedy corporate owner.

Avery Eisenreich Takes Advantage of Residents and Employees for Profit

Avery Eisenreich is the CEO and owner of Omni, a chain of nursing homes in New Jersey which includes Bristol Manor, Rochelle Park; Castle Hill, Union City; Harbor View, Jersey City; Palisade, Guttenberg; Cedar Hill, Cedar Grove; Chancellor, Irvington; Chateau at Rochelle Park; Hudson Manor, Secaucus; Newport, Jersey City; Pope John Paul/St. Mary’s, Orange; Riverton, Rahway; Riverview, Paterson; Silver Care, Cherry Hill; and St. Cloud, West Orange. Omni nursing homes are some of the worst in the state; 45% of short-stay residents at Rochelle Park will develop bed sores.

new jersey philadelphia nursing home neglect CEO pockets monet expense elderlyEisenreich, who bought the nursing homes in 1991, is also misusing Omni funds for his own personal gain. In 2007, Omni made over 20 million dollars in profit while 90% of their funding comes from tax dollars. He was not using the money to improve facility care or increase employee salary. He paid caregivers as little as $7.90 an hour while he paid himself more than $1,500 an hour. He had not invested in training programs in over two years. Eisenreich would intimidate and harass his employees, refused to offer them a reasonable family healthcare plan, and created a hostile work environment. In 2009, 400 Omni workers went on strike that lasted three days to send a message to Eisenreich and the rest of Omni that they wanted fair treatment and pay.

Matt Stanton, a spokesperson for the company, says that they held 32 meetings with the union and in 2008 a final offer was given. Although the union rejected the offer, the terms were enacted that gave employees a pay increase of more than 19% over 5 years and “additional paid time off for many incumbent employees.” This is a start for Omni, but more money needs to be put towards improving the care of the residents. Avery Eisenreich is taking advantage of the elderly, his caregivers and the taxpayers in order to make himself more money.

Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If your loved one is currently a resident at a nursing home and you fear that the care they are receiving may be considered negligent or abusive, you should contact a nursing home neglect lawyer for help. Contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation. You may also call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Bed Sores – Stage 1 and Early Prevention: Free Consultation

We believe that it is essential to notice warning signs of bed sores and pressure ulcers as soon as possible in order to limit potential health issues down the road. Although bed sores are vaguely noticeable on the skin in the early stages, these wounds can quickly intensify and significantly impact the health of individuals. Bed sore attorneys stress the importance of frequently changing positions, especially in hospital beds and wheelchairs, as well as frequent skin examinations to catch bed sores before they develop. The risks are great when dealing with pressure sores and early prevention is the only way to ensure the health of loved ones.

The Beginning Stage of Bed Sores

new jersey philadelphia bed sores lawyers stage one early preventionAs pressure sores begin to develop, the skin will remain intact. This may confuse people into believing that it is simply a skin rash rather than the development of something more severe. People with a lighter complexion will notice that their skin is becoming red. Individuals with darker skin may not notice any significant changes in the coloring of the skin. People will also notice that their skin will not blanch, or briefly lighten, when it is touched or pressure is asserted.

Finally, bed sore attorneys say that the location of the bed sore may bring about many different sensations in patients. The pressure sore could be painful as skin begins to deteriorate. The skin may also begin to feel increasingly firm or soft, which will differ among individuals. The site of the pressure sore may also feel warmer or cooler than the other surrounding skin. All of these different appearances and sensations should be a warning sign that a bed sore is beginning to develop and medical attention is immediately necessary. We firmly believe that this discomfort forces many people to realize that they are not suffering from a normal rash therefore they immediately seek help and hopefully prevent a tragic outcome.

Bed Sore Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a loved one has recently suffered from a bed sore due to improper medical care or neglect, it is possible that you would like to speak with a bed sore attorney. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Bed Sore Attorneys – CA Lawsuit Shows Typical Medical Center Conduct

Bed Sore AttorneysThe family of Esperanza Garcia has recently filed a complaint in Los Angeles County Superior Court following her death in October, 2010. Garcia’s daughter, Irene, is seeking general and special money damages as compensation for her mother’s pain and suffering, as well as costs and fees associated with the litigation. The complaint alleges that the Los Angeles Medical Center was reckless in their treatment and care of the ill woman. Esperanza was extremely ill when she entered the medical facility but she did not suffer from any bed sores or pressure ulcers at the time she entered the center. The bed sore attorneys said that once the bed sores began developing on the 64 year old woman, the personnel at the center did not report the severity of the ulcers or properly treat them.

Death Resulted Only One Day Following Removal From the Facility

The medical center should have been on notice that the elderly woman was at significant risk to develop bed sores because of the likelihood of skin breakdown. The center failed to follow any means of prevention in order to limit the possibility of bed sores. Not only did Garcia’s open wounds go untreated, she was also forced to continue to lie on them. Even worse, the woman was left uncared for in her own excrement for extended periods of time as the sores intensified. The bed sore attorneys found that rather than show the proper medical records, center officials deliberately covered up the documented pressure sores and attempted to re characterize them as merely a skin rash. Following this neglect, the family removed Garcia from the medical center but her condition had worsened beyond treatment and she passed away only a day later. Bed sore attorneys believe that this type of neglect and failure to understand the seriousness of bed sores is more prevalent than most would believe.

Bed Sore Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a family member has recently suffered from pressure ulcers due to neglect or failed treatment, it is possible that you have some questions for bed sore attorneys. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at 856-833-0600 in New Jersey, or 215-567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Nursing Home Neglect Causes Woman to Fall to her Death

Unfortunately, falls are not uncommon in nursing homes. Patients often fall out of bed, in the shower, or just from lack of balance. Nursing home neglect is a serious issue that can lead to severe injuries or even death. Falls are terrible accidents for the elderly and their families, but there are things nursing homes and long-term care facilities can do to prevent them from happening.

Alzheimer’s Patient Climbs Out Window

new jersey philadelphia Nursing Home Neglect woman falls Springfield Skilled Care CenterOzarksFirst.com reported, in Springfield, Missouri, about a woman with Alzheimer’s who fell from a window of the Springfield Skilled Care Center where she was living. Mary Bebee was 81 years old and living in a secured unit of the facility. According to Cpl. Matt Brown of the Springfield Police, “It appears she tried to crawl through the window, attempted that, and at some point expired.” Ms. Bebee fractured her neck and died because of the fall.

The Springfield Skilled Care Center has had previous issues with inspections. The nursing home has been cited for violations in the past year including failure to prevent falls, failure to properly refrigerate some of their medications, safety code violations in the special care unit and fire doors not opening properly when fire alarms were tested. According to the Medicare Nursing Home Compare System, Springfield Skilled Care Center ranks one out of five stars in terms of health inspections, which is well below average.

Accidents like this one can be prevented. Patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia need to be watched more carefully because they can be unpredictable. These residents should not be given the opportunity to hurt themselves in this way. Windows should be securely shut, sharp objects should not be left out and nursing home staff should be present for daily tasks such as bathing and eating. Alzheimer’s and dementia patients are especially vulnerable and need a specialized form of care.

Nursing Home Neglect Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you believe your loved one has been abused or neglected in a nursing home, please contact our professionals at the Mininno Law Offices. We are dedicated to eradicating the current trends of abuse and neglect found in the nursing homes across the country. Contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation. You may also call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, and (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Nursing Home Abuse Warning: Facility Admits High Number of Criminals

When you think of nursing home residents, you most likely think of wheel chair bound and bed ridden elderly that need constant care. Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are meant to be safe places for the elderly and disabled to live under the protection of health care professionals. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, under-staffing, and bad hires, nursing homes can be a terrifying place for often helpless elderly residents. In one Texas nursing home, the residents have more to fear. A population of criminals and sex offenders outnumber the elderly residents.

Criminals Outnumber Elderly Residents in Texas Nursing Home

new jersey philadelphia Nursing Home Abuse lawyers Facility Admits High Number CriminalsAccording to Fox 4 News in Fort Worth, Texas, the Lake Worth Nursing Home houses about 50 registered sex offenders, convicted felons, and prison parolees, some labeled violent offenders by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). “The reason for the high concentration in that facility is the facility’s willingness to take offenders on supervision,” said Jason Clark, spokesperson for the TDCJ. The state does not limit the number of criminals allowed to live in these facilities and they can stay on the government’s expense as long as the home confirms that it is medically necessary.

Residents of the community neighboring the facility are concerned for their safety, having so many convicted offenders living in one place and wandering around the neighborhood freely. Clark does not believe that this is a safety concern, “We have not had any major incidents there at that nursing home,” he told Fox 4. However, police reports from the Lake Worth Police Department show complaints of death threats, violent outbursts and child pornography at the nursing home.

Legally the nursing home is not breaking any laws by allowing the offenders to live in the facility. In fact they have received a 5-star rating. But with fully mobile offenders who have records including robbery, forgery, drugs, rape and other violent crimes, how are the elderly residents supposed to feel safe. As nursing home abuse lawyers, we strongly recommend visiting all facilities before you decide to place a loved one into a nursing home. Pay attention to the facility conditions, staff, neighboring area around the home and the other residents.

Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If your loved one is currently a resident of a nursing home or care facility and you are worried that the care they are receiving is negligent, abusive, or inadequate, contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation. You may also call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Bedsore Attorneys Inform of Common Sites of Bed Sore Development

Pressure sores, more commonly known as bedsores, are injuries to the skin and its underlying tissue. These sores arise due to persistent pressure on the skin for an extended period of time. Bedsores are most likely to develop on skin that is covering certain boney areas of the body (i.e. ankles or tailbone). Bedsore lawyers know that individuals who are confined to a bed or use a wheelchair run a higher risk of suffering from pressure sores.

Beds and Wheelchairs could lead to Increased Risks

new jersey philadelphia Bedsore lawyers common sites pressure sores developmentWheelchairs are a necessary means of mobility for many people worldwide. Although wheelchairs allow individuals to move freely from place to place, the extended period of time in the same position could lead to pressure ulcers. Those who rely on wheelchairs need to be weary of this potential. People who frequently use wheelchairs often suffer from pressure sores in a few sites in particular. The tailbone or buttocks, the shoulder blades and spine, and the backs of the legs and arms are common sites for bedsores to form. These areas of the body rest against the wheelchair for a prolonged period of time, creating a wound which slowly evolves through the bedsore stages.

People who are confined to a bed for extended periods of time are also at an increased risk of pressure sores. The back and sides of the head are a major concern of many bedsore attorneys because it can lead to significant pain and prove difficult to treat. Furthermore, the rim of the ears, shoulder blades, hips, tailbone, heels, ankles, and behind the knees are also susceptible to bedsores, due to the prolonged pressure and contact with the bed.

Bedsore Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If your loved one has acquired bedsores while in a nursing home, or has had negligent treatment of a bed sore or pressure ulcer, immediately seek further medical attention. Our bedsore attorneys are dedicated to holding nursing homes responsible. Contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, and (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Bedsore Attorneys – Factors Leading to Increased Risk

Bedsore lawyers say that there are many factors that could lead to pressure sores and people need to be aware of these issues. Limited mobility is the number one factor that increases the risk of suffering from bedsores. When people are restricted to a wheelchair or bed, it is difficult for them to change positions easily. The sustained pressure on the skin and underlying tissue creates a great risk of bedsores.

Age, Weight Loss, and Lack of Sensory Perception Among other Important Factors

new jersey philadelphia Bedsore lawyers warn factors leading increased riskAs people age, their skin becomes thinner, less elastic, and much more fragile than their younger days. The skin will also seem to be much drier in people of increased age, making it difficult for skin to heal. It takes significantly longer for new skin cells to generate which is another reason that people who are older are more susceptible to skin damage.

People who have suffered from an illness for a long period of time tend to lose significant amounts of weight. With this weight loss, people will see their body’s muscle and fat begin to diminish. This leads to less cushioning between the bones and hard outer surfaces (such as a bed or wheelchair).

People who have lack sensory perception have difficulty feeling pain and discomfort. Since these people are not aware of their discomfort, they may not quickly recognize the development of skin damage and bedsores. This could lead to significant damage to the skin and the underlying tissue, as people do not realize the need to switch positions.

Bedsore Lawyers in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If your loved one has acquired a bedsore while in a nursing home or has had negligent treatment of a bedsore or pressure ulcer, immediately seek further medical attention and contact a bedsore lawyer. Our professionals are dedicated to holding nursing homes responsible for negligent and careless treatment. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, and (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Nursing Home Abuse Occurs as Fraud and Theft

Not all forms of elder and nursing home abuse are physical. Financial elder abuse is becoming more of a problem in this country. Nursing home employees and caregivers are taking advantage of the elderly and sometimes even stealing large amounts of money from them or putting themselves in charge of their finances. Banks will often issue signature stamps to their elderly and disabled customers who are not able to physically go to the bank. Some caregivers are using these stamps to steal thousands of dollars from their elderly patients.

Caregiver uses Signature Stamp to Steal from Elderly Woman

Liz Sanders is a Southern California woman who is fighting against financial elder abuse because her mother, Bette Isenberg, was taken advantage of by her caregiver. Before Bette died at the age of 82 last year, she was bedridden and required round-the-clock care. The woman charged with her care used a signature stamp to cash checks, empty her bank account, access her life insurance fund, and add herself to department store accounts by faxing over a letter that was signed with the signature stamp. Helen Wofford was convicted and sentenced to 32 months in prison. Liz sanders testified to the life-altering effects of Wofford’s actions:

“This $20 signature stamp cost my mother three-quarters of a million dollars and left her in financial ruin. This has been heartbreaking and I don’t want any other family to have to go through this.”

new jersey philadelphia Nursing Home Abuse lawyers occurs fraud theftMs. Sanders is now testifying in support of a bill authorized by Senator Fran Pavley that will enforce new regulations on the issuing of signature stamps. The bill would make it harder for caregivers with ill intentions to obtain the stamps by requiring that a bank employee witness and sign all requests for new signature stamps. Customers given the stamps will also be provided with information on the risks associated with them, in hopes that people will be more aware of the signs of theft or fraud, and also more careful of where the signature stamps are kept. The bill would also increase the punishment for financial elder abuse in California.

This is an excellent step in protecting the elderly from being taken advantage of in California. However, the rest of the country needs to be aware of this issue. Ordering signature stamps for your elderly loved ones can be risky and should be done with caution. Do not leave the stamp around where caregivers or others could potentially take possession of them. Check bank and credit card statements on a regular basis to make sure there are no mysterious charges, and report any suspicions that you may have.

Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If your loved one is being taken advantage of financially, or you believe the care they are recieving is abusive or negligent, you should contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation. You may also call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, and (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.