Thursday, 15 January 2015

Why File A Nursing Home Negligence Suit

By Kristen Baird


As people age many times they are placed in care units after surgeries that operate outside the hospital to recover and return to their previous level of functioning. Others become bed ridden and need extra care that the family can no longer supply in the home while others become confused and forgetful and are at risk of wandering away from home and becoming lost. All of these situations place loved ones in the care of others who need to be diligent in their jobs. Some families find they must file a nursing home negligence suit to ensure proper care is taken with their family member.

In Hammond, LA there are several homes to choose from and researching the company is always a smart decision. Internet information can answer many of the concerns you may have such as inspection scores and prior legal actions taken by individuals or families. Nothing can take the place of first hand viewing of the facility and arriving without notice.

Negligent treatment of patients is one of the worst forms of abuse. It can be very subtle and include such behaviors as unclean linens on patients beds, dirty common areas and unsanitary living conditions. Patients clothing may be soiled and bathing practices may be ignored. Nutrition and hydration are important issues that may be ignored or forgotten by negligent staff.

Many time patients are afraid to report these behaviors for fear of reprisals from staff. Others are not capable of reporting them because they are confused or cannot speak. Family members need to be vigilant every time they visit for signs of negligent abuses.

A sudden loss of weight, unexplained bruising, urinary tract infections from dehydration, sudden, unexplained illness caused by medications not being dispensed or being given the wrong medications, clothing dirty, lost or stolen. All of these things should alert family to conditions that are harmful to patients.

Lack of properly trained staff or hiring too few people to handle the number of patients is generally the main cause of neglect. There are occasions when a staff member physically abuses patients by hitting or pinching as punishment for unwanted behaviors. Other punishments include withholding food, water or medications. If you suspect any of these things it is imperative that you report them to the authorities and make arrangements to move your loved one immediately.

Residents and patients have the right to be treated with love and respect while in these facilities. The business has an obligation to supply adequate staffing that have been trained to meet their needs. They are required to supply activities that help to maintain the patients independence during daily functions such as eating, bathing and dressing. Supervision is necessary for bed ridden patients to prevent bed sores from forming and prevent accidents and falls. Medical records must be accurate and up to date at all times.

As a private citizen you have the right to expect proper care of family members in care facilities. If you feel there is neglect or abuse you may wish to move them to another site and contact an attorney with information that includes photographs and written documentation as examples and proof of your concerns.




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