How To Recognize Nursing Home Negligence
When a loved one can no longer take proper care of themselves due to old age or a disability, they may require extra comfort and care to ensure that they live comfortably. If this need becomes necessary, a nursing home is often the best option. It is meant to be a haven providing the utmost care, attention, and companionship that they need.
Unfortunately, not every Philadelphia nursing home will provide proper care and living conditions. In some cases, residents may be subjected to neglect and hostile conditions. Neglect in a nursing home setting means that caregivers and the institution itself fail to uphold professionalism and provide a healthy environment for its residents. If this happens, it is essential to recognize the signs and take action to prevent further harm.
In this article, we will look at signs that your loved one is not receiving the proper care and attention they deserve and how a personal injury lawyer Bethlehem can help.
Common Types and Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
There are several types of nursing home neglect, and each of them manifests in different ways. They include:
1. Medical Neglect
Medical neglect is when the caregiver fails to report any medical issues or administer medication as prescribed by the physician. It can cause major health issues and death in the worst cases. Signs of medical negligence may include:
- Unexplained drowsiness
- confusion
- Infections
- Unexplained health deterioration
If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing medical neglect, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
2. Unsanitary Conditions and Poor Hygiene
Nursing homes must maintain cleanliness in the facility and for their residents to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. Signs of unsanitary conditions and poor hygiene include:
- Dirt, debris, and rodents in the facility
- Bad odor
- Poor appearances, such as unkempt nails and hair
- Soiled clothes and bedding
Unsanitary conditions are not only unsightly and uncomfortable but can also lead to serious health problems.
3. Poor Supervision
Senior citizens require utmost care and supervision to ensure their safety. When there is inadequate staffing or negligence, residents are vulnerable to fall accidents and other dangerous situations. Signs of poor supervision include:
- Unexplained wandering
- Injuries and bruises from falls
- Bedsores, indicating that your loved one lies in bed for long periods without movement
If your loved one suffers from an injury due to neglect by a caregiver, a lawyer can help you file a compensation claim to help settle medical bills and pay for any physical and emotional trauma.
4. Emotional Neglect
Nursing homes have an ethical and legal responsibility to support their residents emotionally and socially. They should allow your loved one to interact with other residents, friends, and family to reduce stress and prevent depression. The caregivers should also facilitate movement for residents with mobility issues to ensure that they keep in touch with each other and the outside world.
If your loved one is experiencing emotional negligence, you may notice the following signs:
- Irritability and angry outbursts
- Sadness
- Withdrawal
- Isolation and lack of interest in hobbies
Emotional neglect may be difficult to notice; hence, it is essential to pay attention to your loved one’s behavior to ensure that they are in the right state of mind for their health and well-being.
5. Neglect of Basic Needs
Sometimes, a nursing home may fail to provide proper nutrition and hydration. This may cause dehydration, malnutrition, low immunity, and other health issues. Signs of neglect of basic needs include:
- Sudden weight loss
- Unexplained weakness
- General health decline
If you notice any of these signs of nursing home neglect, it is essential to take immediate action. You should call emergency services if they are in immediate danger or need medical attention. With the help of a personal injury attorney Bethlehem, you can also seek financial compensation for any physical or emotional harm done. They will investigate the situation and help you navigate the legal system to get the compensation your loved one deserves.
At Sharma Law Office, we are committed to helping victims of nursing home neglect. With years of experience, we know how to navigate the complex legal system to ensure our clients get the support and guidance they need. If you need help with a nursing home negligence case, contact us today.