Nursing home residents are often among society’s most vulnerable members, relying on staff for their daily care and well-being. Unfortunately, safety concerns can arise, leading to serious harm.
Families need to stay informed and act when negligence is suspected. Below are some of the top safety issues facing nursing home residents.
Falls and mobility accidents
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury for nursing home residents. Limited mobility, poor supervision or unsafe environments can contribute to accidents. Facilities must implement fall prevention strategies, such as handrails, non-slip flooring and regular staff assistance. Failure to do so may result in fractures, head injuries, or even wrongful death.
Medication errors
Errors in administering medication are a common safety concern in nursing homes. Residents may receive the wrong dosage or the incorrect medication or miss essential doses entirely. These mistakes can cause severe health complications, especially for those managing chronic conditions. Families have legal recourse if medication errors result from negligence.
Inadequate staffing and neglect
Understaffing is a widespread issue that compromises residents’ care. Overworked staff may neglect essential tasks such as bathing, feeding and repositioning bedridden residents. Prolonged neglect can lead to bedsores, infections and severe emotional distress. Families must watch for signs of neglect to protect their loved ones.
Abuse and mistreatment
Some residents may suffer physical, emotional or financial abuse at the hands of caregivers. Warning signs include unexplained injuries, sudden behavioral changes or missing personal belongings. Legal intervention can help protect residents from further harm and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Infection control failures
Poor hygiene and inadequate infection control can expose residents to serious illnesses, including respiratory infections and sepsis. Nursing homes must adhere to strict health protocols to protect residents, especially those with compromised immune systems. If neglect leads to infection, families may have grounds to pursue compensation.
Seeking legal help ensures that nursing homes are held accountable and residents receive the care they deserve.
