The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently released a report revealing shocking numbers that indicate nursing home abuse is being severely unnoticed across the country. In fact, the report estimates that every 1 in 5 emergency room (ER) visits from a nursing home is actually caused by nursing home abuse.

Lack of Reporting of Nursing Home Abuse

The report analyzed a number of patients sent to the ER for injuries from an unknown source which is an indication of nursing home abuse and neglect. The Office of Inspector General is working with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to improve the reporting and tracking system of nursing home abuse for skilled nursing facilities.

What is Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect?

Most people live in a nursing home when in need of assistance with day-to-day life functions that may become increasingly difficult with age. Sometimes these daily tasks require more assistance than others and nursing home residents are forced to rely on staff to ensure their safety and hygiene.

nursing home abuse injury

Nursing home neglect occurs when the staff disregard these duties. Nursing home abuse is an intentional infliction of harm on the patient which can be both verbal and physical.

Some of the most common nursing home abuse injuries include:

  • Bed Sores
  • Dehydration/Malnutrition
  • Broken Bones
  • Infections
  • Wrongful Death
  • Medication Errors
  • Emotional Suffering

How Can I Recognize if my Loved One is Experiencing Nursing Home Abuse?

Nursing Home Abuse

There are a few key signs that you need to know in order to properly spot nursing home abuse. First, if the staff is hesitant and makes you wait to see your loved one, it could be a sign they are hiding abuse. Second, if the staff hovers over you while visiting your loved one. Third, and most important, if you notice any new injuries on your loved one that are not easily explainable, it may be a direct result of nursing home abuse. Be aware of your surroundings and the conditions of your loved one’s living environment. Neglect can also cause serious injuries like bed sores and dehydration if your loved one is not being properly treated and cleaned.

Contact an Experienced Cranston, RI Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Today!

Cranston, RI Nursing Home Abuse LawyerIf you or a loved one has sustained an injury or death from nursing home abuse, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and wrongful death (in some cases), among other losses. Our firm is working with experienced RI nursing home abuse lawyers and there is no fee unless you win a settlement or award. Contact us today toll free 24/7 at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out an online contact form for a free (no obligation) case evaluation.

Sources:

  1. cnn.com/2019/06/12/health/nusing-home-abuse-report-hhs-oig/index.html
Author Photo

Paul d’Oliveira

Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.

Rate this Post

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
Loading...