Are nursing home or hospital patients with a cast at risk for developing bed sores?

Yes.  The combination of limited mobility associated with a heavy cast, the constant pressure on areas of the body and a moist environment are all factors that may contribute to the development of bed sores in patients who have casts on their arms or legs. Nursing homes and hospitals should be aware of the potential for bed sores to develop in these patients and assure regular turning and cast checks.

Should a bed sore (also referred to as: decubitus ulcer, pressure ulcer or pressure sore) form in a cast that has a surgical wound, there is a heightened risk for infection and possibly osteomyelitis.

In certain situations involving patients who have developed bed sores under their cast, the cast itself may have been applied improperly.  In these situations, a cause of action may possibly be brought against the physician or medical facility where the cast was initially applied.

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