Attorneys for Victims of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

It can be difficult for a person to give up their independence, or for family members to make the decision that a nursing facility is the most appropriate living arrangement for their loved one. Unfortunately, poor training and supervision, high turnover, and the lack of adequate staffing ratios at many facilities mean that patients do not receive the quality of care they need and deserve. These issues are compounded by the fact that nursing home residents are more vulnerable to abuse or exploitation from those who prey on the weak or helpless. When you or a loved one has been victimized by nursing home abuse or neglect, AttorneyClientMatch.com can help you find a lawyer that will:

  • Put an immediate stop to the abuse or neglect.
  • Ensure that those who violated your trust (and the law) are held accountable for their actions.
  • Help improve the quality of life and care others will receive.
  • See that you or your family member are compensated for the harm which has been committed.
Look for Signs of Abuse and Neglect

In addition to potential criminal charges, the owner of a nursing home can be liable in a civil lawsuit for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other legal damages caused by staff abuse or neglect. However, it can be very difficult to prove nursing home abuse and neglect. Victims may be intimidated and too scared to speak out, or they may be embarrassed and not want to appear in need of help. Some nursing home residents are simply incapable of communicating due to a physical or mental disability.

Another challenge to proving abuse or neglect in a nursing home is that many signs of abuse and neglect appear similar to normal symptoms of aging or illness. Don't let the nursing home staff hide behind this supposed justification and explain away these warning signs so easily. Unless the resident has a diagnosed medical condition that explains symptoms, you should contact an experienced nursing home neglect attorney who can help you get to the bottom of things.

Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

The following are commons signs of nursing home abuse and neglect:

  • Patient is weak, confused or disoriented - a sign of dehydration or malnutrition.
  • Unexplained weight loss - deprivation of food or water.
  • Unexplained mood shift - deprivation of medication or social services, or administration of drugs that are not medically necessary.
  • Bedsores, pressure ulcers, pressure sores - patient is not being moved or turned regularly.
  • Cuts, bruises, burns, or fractures - signs of physical abuse.
  • Patient is fearful or depressed - signs of physical or emotional abuse or neglect, including isolation or abandonment.
  • Bruises on the same spot on both sides of the body, such as the arms - patient was grabbed forcefully and held down
  • Bruises on the wrists or ankles - Patient was placed in physical restraints improperly or for an extended period. The use of physical or chemical restraints is strictly limited in most states to temporary, emergency situations or where a doctor has ordered their use for patient safety.
How to Address Nursing Home Care Issues

Sometimes situations that occur in the care of a loved one don’t rise to the level of abuse or neglect. In those cases, it may be appropriate to talk with the nursing facility’s management, or file a complaint with your state’s department of health or department of aging. Many states have an ombudsman's office designated to hear and resolve issues between patients and facilities.

If you’re unsure about the best way to resolve an issue you’re concerned about, contact the nursing home abuse attorneys at AttorneyClientMatch.com. We are dedicated to representing your interests only and will vigorously advocate on your behalf to make sure the resident is being properly taken care. Because your initial consultation is free of charge, there is no harm in contacting us for an opinion regarding your legal rights. And all information is kept strictly confidential. Call our office today at (888) 636-6700.

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