Recognizing Nursing Home Neglect
We have been reporting here at kentuckinjurylawyerblog tips for recognizing signs of nursing home abuse. In addition to abuse, nursing home neglect is also far too common. Neglect occurs when an adult is unable to perform or obtain for himself the goods or services that are necessary to maintain his health or welfare, or the deprivation of services by a caretaker that are necessary to maintain the health and welfare of an adult. Neglect may be intentional or unintentional. For example, a caring aide who is poorly trained may not know how to provide proper care. Regardless of whether the neglect is intentional or unintentional, it is still against the law.
The Kentucky Office of the Attorney General has published a booklet to assist individuals in recognizing the signs of nursing home abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The following are some indicators of neglect:
Substandard care which often results in one or more of the following conditions:
* immobilization
* loss of bowel or bladder control
* dehydration
* bed sores
* depression
Failure to turn or reposition resident on a regular schedule, including use of physical restraints or overmedication, which leads to:
* limb contractures
* skin breakdown (bed sores)
Lack of toileting or changing of disposable briefs, which causes:
* loss of bowel or bladder control, resulting in residents sitting in urine and feces
* increased falls and agitation
* indignity
* skin breakdown
* persistent odor of urine or feces
Unmet personal or medical needs:
* inappropriate clothing
* poor hygiene
* incorrect use or administration of medicine
Poor or absent oral hygiene, which leads to:
* tooth decay
* oral infections
* loose teeth
Lack of assistance with eating and drinking or inadequate or improperly prepared food, which leads to:
* malnutrition
* dehydration
* weight loss
Lack of assistance walking/moving, which leads to lack of mobility
Poor hand washing techniques, which leads to infection
Withdrawal or isolation which may be caused by the failure to provide assistance and/or encouragement in participating in activities of interest
Ignoring call bells or cries for help
If you suspect a friend or loved one has suffered or is currently suffering from abuse or neglect in a nursing home, please feel free to contact Vanessa Cantley, partner at Bahe Cook Cantley & Jones, to discuss their legal rights. Vanessa can be reached at (866) 587-0002, or you can e-mail her by clicking here: e-mail Vanessa.
