When placing a loved one into a nursing home, staff members have a duty to provide continuous and appropriate nursing care and attention. Unfortunately, elder abuse has become more prevalent and is rapidly becoming an epidemic in the United States. A common misconception among many is that mistreatment only occurs in small or poverty-stricken nursing homes. However, neglect occurs in almost all long-term care facilities regardless of its size or quality of amenities provided.
The abuses unfortunately involve defenseless elderly individuals who may have either physical or mental disabilities due to complex chronic medical diseases, dementia, or immobility secondary to skeletal fractures or debilitations. Sadly, a large percentage of nursing homes are privately owned as “for profit” businesses and in some cases, profits are placed with greater importance over the well-being of the elderly patient.
What are the Warning Signs of Neglect and Abuse?
- Unexplained death
- Presence of bedsores or decubitus ulcers
- Infections not treated timely
- Infections of the colon called colitis
- Unexplained falls, broken bones, bruises, or injuries.
- Poor attention to detail by nursing staff
- Medication errors
- Malnourishment
- Dehydration
- Unsanitary conditions
- Lack of attending nursing staff
If you or a loved one are suffering from nursing home abuse, it’s imperative to take action now. At Potts Law Firm, your case will be investigated thoroughly. We will request the medical records on your behalf and our experienced medical team will analyze the records. In addition, a legal professional will be available to assist you with the entire process. For the health and safety, as well as piece of mind, contact Potts Law Firm for a free legal consultation at 888-902-6245.
