Legal Perils and Pitfalls of Wound Care

In skilled nursing facilities, the top targets for litigation are pressure ulcers, malnutrition, and dehydration. Up to 20% of all U.S. legal medical claims and more than 10% of settlements are wound related, and more than 17,000 pressure ulcer–related lawsuits are filed annually in the United States, second only to wrongful death lawsuits. This guide discusses the legal implications of wound care, with an emphasis on pressure ulcers. The decision to sue a facility is often based on overall satisfaction with care. Good communication between health care providers and patients and their families, as well as a caring attitude, may determine whether a lawsuit is initiated. Meticulous documentation is essential to prove that appropriate care was provided. Wound care professionals are already attuned to best practice patient care, but they must also be aware of the standards of care from a legal standpoint. This practical and informative guide gives you the tools you need to avoid pressure ulcer litigation.