Osteomyelitis is bone inflammation due to a bone infection, usually from an open wound such as a pressure sore that has remained untreated. Osteomyelitis requires aggressive treatment to ensure that the bone can be saved, that infection does not continue to spread, and the patient’s life will be saved.
Most people will recover from pressure sores if caught early and treatment is started immediately. When a resident has a compromised immune system and nursing home staff is overworked or undertrained, they may miss the signs of a pressure sore, putting your loved one at risk for serious complications such as osteomyelitis.
Signs of an advanced pressure sore include:
- Warmth and swelling around the sore;
- Fever;
- Red skin in the affected area;
- Weeping pus;
- Foul-smelling drainage;
- Altered mental state.
Pressure sores that progress to stage four can lead to osteomyelitis when a bacterial infection enters the bones. Osteomyelitis due to pressure sores develops quickly, between seven to 10 days. The bones most susceptible for osteomyelitis are the long bones in the arms and legs, as well as the hips and spine.
Symptoms of osteomyelitis include:
- Fever;
- Deep bone pain;
- Fatigue;
- Irritability;
- Lost range of motion;
- Swelling in the area of the infection;
- Tenderness, redness, and warmth in the area of the infection.
Treatment for osteomyelitis usually begins with a course of IV antibiotics over four to six weeks. If antibiotics do not work, surgery may be required to repair bone damage, debride the wound, drain fluid, and restore blood flow. If osteomyelitis continues despite treatment, it is then usually necessary to amputate the infected limb.
Pressure sores are almost always preventable, and their presence is often a sign of nursing home abuse or neglect. If your loved one suffered a pressure sore while in a nursing home and it developed into osteomyelitis, they may be entitled to compensation for their damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer can review your case and advise you on the best course of action for your claim.
If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a long-term care facility, contact America’s Consumer Lawyer, for a free consultation. We are a Chicago injury law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. America’s Consumer Lawyer, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, America’s Consumer Lawyer, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire us–just the opportunity to seek justice.
