K

Kennedy terminal ulcer – Specific type of bedsore (also referred to as a pressure sore, pressure ulcer or decubitus ulcer) that is characterized by rapid onset and rapid tissue breakdown; it was named after Karen Lou Kennedy-Evans (who discovered the medical condition); these develop from poor blood circulation because of unrelieved pressure. These are different from other bedsores because – rapid onset (wounds progress within hours); grows downward instead of horizontally; mostly found on the sacrum; occur almost always in elderly; bedsores are usually irregularly shaped (pear-like); death occurs quickly (24-48 hours of onset).

Ketoacidosis – The body does not use sugar as an energy source because of no or not enough insulin instead fat is used.

Kidney failure – When the kidneys no longer clean the bodies blood by removing excess fluid, minerals, and waste; wastes that are harmful can build up in the body and the body can retain excess fluid.

About Jonathan Rosenfeld

Jonathan RosenfeldJonathan Rosenfeld is a lawyer who represents people injured in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Jonathan has represented victims of nursing home abuse and neglect throughout Illinois and across the country. Jonathan’s reputation as an aggressive advocate for the…

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Additional Resources

Bed Sore FAQ

Q: Medical Journal Calls for Increased Use of Pressure Sore Assessment Scale

A recent study from the Ostomy Wound Management journal claims that the Braden Scale of assessment  is extremely effective in diagnosing and preventing bed sores, or decubitus ulcers. The six-point Braden Scale, which was developed in 1987, assesses patients in …

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