Nursing Home Abuse and Negligence
Each year, approximately two million nursing home residents are the victims of abuse or negligence. People are living longer than ever before, which means nursing homes everywhere are operating at full capacity, often with an overburdened and under-trained staff. Unfortunately, as the number of elderly persons entering nurse homes increases, so too will the number of cases of nursing home abuse and negligence.
Elder abuse takes a number of different forms. Physical abuse is one kind, and it consists of acts of force or violence that result in injuries or physical pain. Physical abuse can be anything from striking and shaking to the improper use of physical restraints or force-feeding. Another type is sexual abuse, which is defined as nonconsensual sexual contact. Emotional abuse is a third form of nursing home abuse. Emotional abuse occurs when the victim suffers mental anguish or emotional distress. Emotional abuse ranges from insults and humiliation to harassment and intimidation.
Financial abuse is another serious issue. Financial abuse or exploitation is the illegal or improper use of a resident’s money or assets. Examples include stealing, forging a patient’s signature, cashing a patient’s check without their permission and abusing fiduciary powers.
Most nursing home abuse, however, is not the result of isolated incidents. Ongoing neglect is the cause of the majority of injuries suffered by nursing home residents. Neglect occurs when the nursing home fails to fulfill the duty of care it owes to its residents. Examples of neglect include failing to provide residents with food and water and failing to rotate bedridden patients so as to prevent pressure sores. Neglect can lead to bedsores, malnutrition and dehydration.
Nursing home residents are highly vulnerable. Physical and mental limitations can leave them unable to defend themselves. In fact, they may not even be capable of reporting the abuse. That is why it is important that the family members of a nursing home resident remain alert to the possible signs of nursing home abuse and negligence.
Bedsores are one of the top indications of nursing home neglect. Unexplained cuts, sprains, bruises and other physical injuries are also important warning signs. The behavior of the nursing home staff can be indicative of abuse as well. Suspicious behavior can include refusing to allow the resident to have visitors or not allowing visitors to be alone with the resident.
Those who have been the victims of nursing home abuse can take legal action in order to pursue compensation for their losses. If the abused resident is unable to initiate litigation, a family member can bring an action on the victim’s behalf. Legal action in North Carolina can be taken against the nursing home, particular staff members or both.
Contact Younce & Vtipil for more information about how we can help you rightfully claim the benefits you deserve - (919) 661-9000
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