As nursing home abuse lawyers, it is important that we educate people about what is considered nursing home abuse. We have discussed forms of physical abuse and the signs that a nursing home patient may be a victim of such abuse. However, nursing home patient abuse can take many forms. Negligence is a very common detriment to care quality in nursing homes, and definately a form of nursing home abuse.
Nursing Home Negligence IS Nursing Home Abuse
Neglect is defined as:
–verb (used with object)
1. to pay no attention or too little attention to; disregard or slight
2. to be remiss in the care or treatment of
3. to omit, through indifference or carelessness
4. to fail to carry out or perform (orders, duties, etc
The above definitions accurately describe the kind of negligence that we are talking about; negligence that results in illness, injuries, bedsores, malnutrition, dehydration, isolation, fear, and an all around poor quality of life. Certain standards must be met regarding nutrition, hydration, medication, shelter, hygiene, personal safety, and comfort. When nursing home staff members do not fulfill these obligations to their residents, they are indeed committing a form of nursing home abuse.
Signs of Negligent Care
As a family member of a nursing home resident, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of nursing home neglect and abuse. Keep a close watch not only on your loved one, but on the facility in it’s entirety, for the following signs of neglect:
- Unsanitary or hazardous conditions that go without repair (i.e. bed bug or flea infestations, lack of heat, broken railings, doors, or equipment)
- Bed sores
- Soiled bedding that is not immediately changed
- Signs of Malnutrition – anemia, unexplained weight loss, dry scaly skin, confusion or irritability
- Slow reaction time from nursing staff
- Little to no interaction between resident and staff
- Constant sedation
As always, it is imperative to listen to your loved one’s comments and complaints, and follow up with a proper investigation. Neglect can do serious harm to a person already suffering from a debilitating condition.
Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers in New Jersey and Philadelphia
If your loved one is a resident at a nursing home or long-term care facility and you believe they may be victims of abuse or neglect, contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation. You may also call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia. The nursing home abuse lawyers at the Mininno Law Office are dedicated to the fight against nursing home abuse, and to earning victimized patients and families their due compensation.
It is important that nursing home staff be fully trained in how to deal with the special needs of nursing home patients so that physical abuse does not occur. It is also important that a patient’s family be aware of the signs of abuse. Some of the more obvious signs are bruising, cuts, unexplained marks, broken bones, and a variety of injuries in various stages of healing. It is also important to listen to the patient. A resident’s report of violent behavior, such as being hit or mistreated, must be investigated. Sometimes, a nursing home patient’s sudden change in behavior can be a sign of nursing home abuse or neglect and should absolutely be investigated.