The Various Stages of a Bed Sore and What to Do About it

By Your Health Magazine

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, pressure wounds, or pressure sores, are injuries that develop when someone stays in one position for too long without moving. However, sometimes people suffer from bedsores because of negligence, for example, in cases of nursing home abuse. Well, an experienced bedsore lawyer can help victims pursue justice by filing a compensation claim.

If left untreated, bedsores can turn into serious health problems, including septic shock. In this article, we will discuss the different stages of bedsores to help you spot the issue early enough and get your loved one the right care.

Stage 1: Redness and Skin Irritation

This is the earliest stage of bedsores. The skin appears red, pink, or discolored and feels warm or firm to the touch. It might hurt, itch, or feel uncomfortable, but there isn’t an open wound yet.

In this stage, you can relieve the pressure by changing positions often, for instance, every 15 minutes. Keep the area clean and dry. Using pillows or foam pads can help protect the skin and prevent the sore from getting worse.

Stage 2: Open Sore or Blister

In this stage, the top layer of skin breaks open. It may look like a shallow sore or a blister filled with fluid. The skin around it may be red or swollen. You can clean the area gently with saline or mild soap and water. Use a dressing to protect the wound. It will also help to avoid putting pressure on the sore area and to continue changing positions regularly. If the area looks infected, get medical attention.

Stage 3: Deeper Wounds

Now, the sore has moved past the top layers of skin and into the fat tissue underneath. It may look like a deep hole or crater. At this stage, there is a very high risk of infection. You will require help from a doctor or a wound care specialist. The area may need to be cleaned thoroughly or even have the dead tissue removed. Special dressing and antibiotics may be required.

Stage 4: Muscle and Bone Damage

This is the most severe stage. The sore has reached down to the muscles, tendons, or even the bone. These wounds are often large, painful, and infected. Stage 4 sores require immediate care. Treatment might include surgery, long-term care, pain management, and infection control. It may take even months to heal.

Unstageable Pressure Ulcers

Sometimes, a bedsore is covered with thick yellow or black tissue, which makes it impossible to see how deep the sore goes. These are called unstageable pressure ulcers. A doctor will remove the dead tissue to look at the wound and decide the best treatment. These sores indicate severe tissue damage that needs close monitoring.

Deep Tissue Pressure Injuries (DTPI)

A deep tissue pressure injury starts under the skin and may appear as a dark purple or maroon area. It will look like a blood-filled blister. These can quickly turn into open wounds if not treated the right way.

When to Get Help

If a sore does not improve within a few days, starts to smell, or produces pus, see a doctor right away. The same case applies to fevers. As mentioned in some places, like nursing homes or hospitals, bedsores may be a sign of neglect. If you suspect this, it is best to get legal help.

Final Thoughts

Bedsores can become serious, but most can be prevented with proper care. Knowing the stages from early redness to deep wounds and understanding how to respond can make all the difference in healing. If your loved one has experienced bedsores because of negligence, you can reach out to a lawyer.