Many families don’t learn about a pressure ulcer until it’s advanced enough to be visible during a visit. In practice, that often means:
- A sudden change in skin color (redness, darkening, or open areas) noticed after a period when turning, hygiene, or mobility assistance seemed inconsistent.
- Reports that sound “standard” at first—then worsen over days or weeks.
- Delays in wound care updates or care-plan adjustments.
California facilities are expected to assess residents’ skin risk and respond promptly when a wound develops. When that doesn’t happen, the timeline becomes central to the case.


