Nursing home residents count on staff members to care for them properly. While many residents experience excellent care, considerable harm can result if staff members are negligent.
Certain events are signs that something may be amiss in a nursing facility. Anyone with a loved one in one of these homes should pay close attention to these events, as they may indicate that it’s time to seek legal guidance.
Frequent falls
Frequent falls indicate that a resident isn’t being cared for properly. Every resident should have a fall assessment when they move in. These should also be repeated regularly. Any resident who falls should receive immediate medical attention to address any injuries.
Malnutrition and dehydration
Malnutrition and dehydration may signal that the nursing home staff isn’t monitoring their residents properly. In some cases, this could be because a resident isn’t receiving the assistance they need with eating or drinking.
Pressure ulcers
Pressure ulcers, which are also known as bed sores, occur when residents aren’t moved appropriately. This condition can develop because someone on bed rest or in a wheelchair isn’t being turned or transferred using the correct procedures.
Incorrect medication administration
Medication administration is critical for nursing home residents. When medications aren’t given as directed, the residents can suffer. Inadequate management of medicines that are prescribed for life-threatening conditions can lead to serious problems, including death.
Wandering and elopement
Residents can generally explore a nursing home without it being an issue. It becomes wondering when they do that without realizing what they’re doing or where they’re going. Elopement occurs when residents leave the property while they’re wandering. Residents who have cognitive impairments are particularly prone to this dangerous behavior. Proper security at a facility can prevent it from occurring.
Nursing home abuse and neglect can cause considerable harm to residents. They’ll need to get proper medical attention. They, or their loved ones, may also opt to pursue a compensation claim to recover the financial damages associated with the event. Georgia law limits the time they have to file, so they must act quickly.
