Case Study: Neglect and Deterioration of Pressure Ulcers in a Dementia Patient

Background

On admission to YYY Nursing Facility in May 2022, Mrs. XXX, a 63-year-old woman, was diagnosed with Dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Her skin was intact at the time of admission and Braden assessment indicated that he had “no risk developing pressure ulcers”.

Initial Assessment and Care Plan

During the initial evaluation, healthcare professionals set a baseline for immediate pressure ulcer risks. However, it was necessary to constantly monitor her condition because she had been diagnosed with dementia. The care plan included regular assessments as well as preventive measures aimed at upholding skin integrity.

First Signs of Complications

The nursing team noted the first symptoms of redness on Mrs. XXX’s sacral region on August 11th, 2022, which meant that there is a possibility she may develop pressure sores. In order to promote healthy skin, her attending doctor recommended turning her every two hours as well as ensuring that she receives enough nutrition supplements.

Escalation to Stage 2 Pressure Ulcers

By September 1st, 2022, Mrs. XXX’s condition had worsened into stage two sacral pressure ulcers. It was observed from documentation that the nursing staff did not comply with the prescribed turning and repositioning schedule. Alongside wound care and nutritional support, this preventive measure was underscored by the doctor (physician).

Moving Towards Unstageable Pressure Ulcers

On October 1, 2022, it was very unfortunate that the condition of Mrs. XXX had worsened substantially with her developing unstageable pressure ulcers which were indicated by pus drainage and severe tissue loss. As usual, the records showed that the nursing staff were not complying with turning and repositioning protocols. Wound care, debridement procedures, plastic surgery consultations and infectious disease follow-ups are among the treatment methods that have been prescribed for her.

Outcome

Despite various interventions and specialised follow-ups, Mrs. XXX’s prognosis was still poor due to how advanced her pressure ulcers were. Lack of adherence to basic preventive measures significantly deteriorated her condition.

Fixing Healthcare Mistakes through Legal Action

For lawyers who deal with clients in identical situations like this one here, they can utilise this case as an example when discussing possible grounds for legal action against their clients’ neglect and substandard care practices. Compelling evidence can be found in detailed documentation showing non-compliance with medical recommendations thereby enabling pursuit of claims for damages.

The intention of this paper is to give lawyers sufficient information in a small space so that they can represent their clients’ interests better and ensure that these healthcare mistakes are fixed immediately and effectively.

This case study intends to educate attorneys about the importance of proper nursing care in preventing severe medical complications such as pressure ulcers among elderly patients suffering from dementia.

Conclusion

This case points out a pressing matter; adhering to set care protocols is vital in preventing pressure ulcers among these vulnerable groups such as elderly dementia patients. The failure of YYY Nursing Facility’s staff to turn or reposition patients on a regular basis led directly from initial redness to unstageable pressure ulcers with severe complications.

The Role of Medical Record Review in Ensuring Justice for Neglected Patients

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