7 Signs of Nursing Home Abuse |
Posted: September 20, 2016 |
Placing a loved one in a nursing home is not an easy decision to make. Entrusting the care of a parent or a family member in the hands of complete strangers is always overwhelmingly difficult. But it is sometimes necessary to move them so that they receive 24 hours attention – even when you are away at work. The last thing we expect is for the staff of these nursing homes to neglect or mistreat them. Unfortunate, but true – there are many nursing home abuse or neglect cases that are observed and the number keeps rising. It is hence of utmost importance to be aware of the signs of such neglect by the caregivers and pay close attention to the signs that indicate the occurrence of such neglect. If you notice any of these signs, you can contact a nursing home abuse lawyer and file a case. Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer in Tulsa, Oklahoma ensure that they run a complete background check of the nursing home in question and provide you with accurate advice and consultation. Malnutrition Malnutrition is one of the most common signs to look out for. Especially if the nursing home is understaffed, their efficiency in feeding the elderly could easily be lowered. Untrained staff also contributes to this factor. It’s important to notice signs of malnutrition such as lower energy levels and rapid weight loss. Bed Sores When patients who are immobile are admitted to a nursing home, it is essential that the staff helps them to move and change positions. This is essential to maintain regular blood flow and prevent too much pressure on certain areas. Redness on heels, elbows and some other areas is a common place to look for any signs. Emotional Changes If your loved one is generally upbeat and happy and suddenly displays signs of being upset all the time, it could be a case of neglect. Unchanged Dressings The nursing home staff should be sensitive to those with wounds who need regular change of dressings. It is also important that the bedding be changed regularly. If the wound is not cleaned regularly and re-dressed, it can worsen. You must ensure that the staff is carrying out all the duties and providing the care that is expected. Falls and Bruises While falls are not preventable, it is important that the caregivers at a nursing home are attentive to all those living there. Falls and bruises should not be a frequent occurrence. If that is the case, it plainly indicated that the staff has been negligent in performing duties as expected. Unexpected Silence If your loved one is silent and does not communicate to you about the happenings at the nursing home, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Check if this behavior is especially noticed in the presence of the caregivers. You can hire a nursing home abuse attorney to further investigate the matter. Sudden Weight Loss Sudden weight loss is an obvious sign of neglect. Before you jump to any conclusions in this case, make sure that you call a doctor and check whether there aren’t any other underlying medical causes for weight loss. If you can confirm that the weight loss is due to carelessness and malnutrition, make sure that you talk to the nursing home about it. Finally, make sure that you talk to a nursing home neglect lawyer and find out about filing a case. It is critical that you are aware of the warning signs of such neglect in care. Also, never hesitate to seek information and understand your legal options - after all it’s about the wellbeing of your dear ones!
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