As elders become physically and mentally incapable of caring for themselves, many people put their elderly loved ones into a nursing home. Nursing homes are designed to provide medical care and various forms of therapy so that the occupants of that nursing home are as healthy as possible despite ages and conditions. Majority of occupants in nursing homes do not need hospital care, but need to be watched over and tended to several times a day. Oftentimes, unfortunately, many nursing homes fail to provide the appropriate services,committing acts of abuse and neglect, which may cause detrimental outcomes for elderly patients.
The Definition of Abuse:
- The Federal nursing home regulations define abuse as a deliberate infliction, unnecessary confinement, intimidation, deprivation of care and service, or punishments that cause physical harm, pain, and mental anguish.
The Definition of Neglect:
- The Federal nursing home regulations define neglect as a failure to provide a resident with the necessary care and service that ensure the resident freedom from harm, pain, and emotional distress.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Although some signs of abuse and neglect may be subtle at first, it is important that if you notice reccurring signs, you take action for your loved one immediately. Below are some of the signs you should look out for if your loved one has been placed into a nursing home.
- Dehydration
- Infections
- Malnutrition
- Bed sores
- Rapid weight loss or weight gain
- Constant agitation
- Non-communicative
- Bed Injuries
- Unsanitary bedding
- Unchanged soiled clothing
- Desire of isolation
- Head injuries
- Fractured or broken bones
- Unexplained cuts, bruises, or sores
- Changes in behavior
- Unexplained death
If you suspect that your loved one has been or has become a victim of nursing home abuse, it is important that you seek legal representation right away. The effects of such abuse can be detrimental to an elderly person’s well-being, whether it is physically, mentally, or emotionally.
Our Philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys at Shrager, Spivey & Sachs understand the anxieties that may surface when a loved one has been placed into a nursing home that is not performing up to appropriate standards. Don’t wait. You and your loved one may be compensated for any harm or financial medical expenses suffered through and after the abuse.
Allow a Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyer at Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco to represent you. We have recovered hundreds of millions for our clients! Start your fight for justice and call the firm today.
