Examples of Nursing Home Neglect and How to Achieve Justice
When we place our loved ones in the care of a nursing home, we trust that they will receive the attention, respect, and medical care they deserve. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. As a New Orleans personal injury lawyer, I can fight for the rights of your loved one if you believe they are being mistreated.
Common Examples of Neglect in Care Facilities
Nursing home neglect can take many forms. The following are some of the most common examples I’ve encountered.
- Also known as pressure ulcers, bedsores are one of the most telltale signs of neglect. They occur when a patient is left in the same position for too long, leading to painful sores that can become infected. Bedsores are preventable with proper care, and their presence often indicates that the staff is not regularly repositioning the resident.
- Malnutrition and dehydration. When facility staff fail to provide adequate food and water, residents can suffer from malnutrition and dehydration. This can lead to severe health problems, including weakness, confusion, and infections. Proper monitoring of nutritional intake is essential.
- Poor hygiene. Neglect can also manifest in poor hygiene practices. If a resident is not regularly bathed, their clothes aren’t changed, or they’re left in soiled bedding, it can lead to infections, skin conditions, and a loss of dignity.
- Medication errors. Whether it’s giving the wrong medication, administering incorrect dosages, or failing to provide necessary medications on time, drug mistakes can have serious consequences.
- Emotional neglect. It is also important to recognize that neglect isn’t always physical. When residents are ignored, isolated, or treated dismissively by the staff, depression, anxiety, and a decline in mental health are possible. Emotional well-being is just as important as physical health, and its neglect is equally damaging.
If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect, take action quickly. Collecting evidence is a key first step. This might include medical records, photographs of injuries, and witness statements. I will work with you to compile all the necessary documentation to build a strong case.
Once we have the evidence, I can help you file a formal complaint with the appropriate authorities. This could be with the Louisiana Department of Health or another regulatory body. Filing a complaint can trigger an investigation into the facility’s practices.
Pursuing Legal Avenues for Compensation
In situations where neglect is severe, we may pursue a lawsuit against the nursing home. This can result in compensation for your loved one’s pain and suffering, medical expenses, and other damages. Finally, as a New Orleans personal injury lawyer, I can help you ensure that your loved one receives the care they need moving forward. Whether it’s finding a new facility or securing additional care, my goal is to protect their well-being now and in the future.
When did you discover your loved one was not being cared for appropriately? Have a conversation with the lawyers at Palazzo Law Firm about the neglect you are aware of in a New Orleans, Metairie, or Gretna care facility. Call 504-433-1442 for a confidential consultation.
