Most Common Nursing Home Safety Violations
Nursing homes are intended to provide care, comfort, and safety for elderly individuals who can no longer live independently. Unfortunately, many nursing homes fail to live up to this standard and put their residents at risk of harm.
According to Medicare, the government agency responsible for overseeing nursing homes in the United States, numerous common safety violations occur in nursing homes across the country. These violations can cause serious harm to residents and their families, so it's essential to be aware of them and take action if necessary.
A List of Common Nursing Home Violations
Common safety violations, according to Medicare, include:
Lack of Adequate Staffing: Caregiving homes with insufficient staffing levels are more likely to provide substandard care, leading to many issues, such as untreated bedsores, malnutrition, dehydration, and poor hygiene.
Failure to Provide Proper Medical Care: Many residents require regular medical attention, such as medication management, wound care, or physical therapy. Poor care in nursing facilities can lead to serious harm, including infections, bedsores, and even death.
Abuse: Residents are vulnerable to nursing home abuse and neglect by caregivers or other residents. Abuse includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Abuse can lead to wrongful death.
Poor Sanitation and Hygiene Standards: Poor sanitation and lack of hygiene can spread infections, such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or C. difficile (Clostridium difficile), which can be especially dangerous for elderly or immunocompromised residents.
Falls and Accidents: Unsafe conditions or lack of supervision can increase a resident's fall risks. Common causes include inadequate lighting, cluttered hallways, and wet floors.
Nursing Home Neglect: When caregivers fail to provide basic care needs, such as food, water, or medication, residents may suffer from malnutrition, dehydration, or untreated medical conditions. Neglect can lead to serious health problems and even death.
Accident Hazards: Poor lighting, slippery floors, and broken equipment in the facility can increase residents' risk of accidents and injuries.
How to Stop Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
One of the most effective ways to prevent abuse and neglect is to hold nursing homes accountable for their actions. It can involve reporting abuse to authorities, contacting a personal injury lawyer, or filing a lawsuit.
It's also important to advocate for better care in nursing homes, both in public and private (for-profit) facilities. This can include supporting legislation to increase staffing levels, promoting higher standards of care, and encouraging transparency and accountability
Another crucial step is to pay attention to the signs of abuse and neglect, such as unexplained injuries, changes in behavior or mood, and poor hygiene. We can help protect our loved ones from the dangers of mistreatment by recognizing these warning signs and taking action.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Some common signs of abuse and neglect include:
Unexplained injuries or bruises
Changes in behavior or mood, such as sudden agitation or withdrawal
Poor hygiene or unsanitary living conditions
Unexplained financial transactions or changes to a resident's financial status
Suspect Neglect or Abuse?
By being aware of these warning signs and addressing them, we can help prevent abuse and neglect and ensure that our loved ones receive the care and respect they deserve.
Mistreatment is a critical issue that affects many vulnerable individuals in our society. By understanding the common signs of abuse and neglect, advocating for better care in nursing homes, and holding nursing homes accountable for their actions, we can take steps to prevent harm and protect our loved ones.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Hold Nursing Homes Liable for Abuse or Neglect
Do you suspect neglect or abuse led to your loved one's injuries at the nursing facility? If so, a personal injury lawyer may be able to help.
A personal injury lawyer can review your case, investigate the facility's operations and policies, and help you pursue legal action if necessary.
Many personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation to discuss your options and help you understand your rights. They can also guide common nursing home violations and how to hold nursing homes accountable for their negligence.
By working with a personal injury lawyer, you can take steps to protect your loved ones and ensure that nursing homes are held responsible for any harm they have caused.