When you notice redness, open sores, or a wound that seems to worsen quickly, your first goal is medical safety—not paperwork. But you can protect your claim at the same time.
Take these steps as soon as possible:
- Ask for a wound/skin assessment update in writing (or request the latest care plan and skin check documentation).
- Request the facility’s risk assessment and prevention plan for the resident (mobility, nutrition, repositioning schedule, and monitoring frequency).
- Document your observations: dates/times you first saw changes, what staff told you, and whether you were told the issue was “expected” or “temporary.”
- Save discharge summaries and wound care instructions if the resident is transferred to another facility or hospital.
Michigan families dealing with long-term care disputes often find that the facility’s documentation is the most important starting point. Acting early helps preserve the clearest timeline.


