WHEN NURSING HOMES NEGLECT THE ELDERLY
Families who are unable to provide care for an elderly relative place their trust in nursing homes to provide the care their loved one needs. So it’s especially devastating when nursing homes abuse or neglect the very people they are supposed to protect.
Contrary to popular belief, nursing home abuse is not considered the same as medical malpractice, but medical malpractice is the overall umbrella of which nursing home negligence falls under.
NURSING HOME ABUSE: WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?
Nursing homes are often understaffed, so CNAs (certified nurse assistants) are required to care for more residents than they can handle. As a result, residents often must wait long periods—sometimes hours—for the care they need, such as assistance with meals and hygiene. Also, overworked aides have been known to resort to violence when they are overwhelmed or frustrated by the endless workload.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Home Abuse
What are the most commons signs of nursing home abuse?
There are telltale signs that abuse is taking place. These may include bed sores, weight loss, and infections. Signs can also be more subtle, such as your elderly loved ones getting quiet when nursing home employees enter the room. Learn more about the most common signs of nursing home abuse.
What can I do to help identify nursing home abuse?
There are common-sense steps you can take to stay proactive and identify nursing home abuse. Often nursing homes are understaffed or undertrained. This is why it is important to make frequent visits and stay involved as much as possible. Also, there are important factors you should consider when choosing a nursing home.
What is the most commonly reported case of of nursing home negligence?
The most commonly reported nursing home abuse cases involve failure to take care of the patient which results in bed sores. This can cause other injuries including sepsis, which is poison throughout the body.
Another common and preventable form of nursing home abuse is falls. Elderly patients are susceptible to falling and breaking bones, but with proper care, can be prevented.
How to get help
Call us today at 216-621-0070 or complete our online form to get a free consultation if your loved one has been hurt as a result of nursing home negligence.
IDENTIFYING ABUSE AND NEGLECT
The nursing home neglect lawyers at Friedman, Domiano & Smith are dedicated to bringing these offenders to justice. In our experience with nursing home investigations, we’ve found that most claims cite one of more of these problems:
- Bed sores (also called decubitus ulcers or pressure ulcers)
- Malnutrition and dehydration
- Fecal impaction
- Bladder infections
- Fractures and other injuries from falls
- Wandering off (also called elopement)
- Physical or verbal abuse
Our History of Success
Our legal team has worked on numerous nursing home neglect and abuse cases, and have been awarded large settlements for our clients. Read about our verdicts and settlements in related cases.