Pittsburgh residents do not take the decision to place a loved one in a nursing home lightly. With all the horror stories that are on the news about people in nursing homes facing various forms of abuse, a family will undoubtedly perform its due diligence and try to make certain any facility in which they are placing a loved one is safe and secure. Unfortunately, even facilities that are – on the surface – well-maintained and competent can have instances of abuse and neglect. When there is a belief that a loved one is being mistreated, it is wise to consider filing a lawsuit.
There are many ways in which a person can be abused or mistreated in a nursing home. There can be physical, emotional and sexual abuse. A person might be ignored and left without medication. Malnutrition can occur. If the person does not receive medication and medical care that is necessary to maintain health, they might need hospitalization and even die. Another possible issue is bedsores. These come about if a patient is immobile and bedridden, but is not moved sufficiently to avoid these sores from coming about. Medication errors can be due to a lack of attention from the staff or basic malpractice.
Loved ones should be vigilant as to the signs of nursing home abuse. These can include the person acting withdrawn, fearful, looking unwell, having bruises, cuts and broken bones and more. If the resident is unable to communicate, it is even more crucial that the family keep a close watch on the staff and look for potential mistreatment and mistakes.
When there is evidence of nursing home abuse or negligence and the loved one is injured or dies because of it, the nursing home should be held accountable. Discussing a possible legal case with an attorney with extensive experience in nursing home neglect can assist with moving forward and being compensated. This is the first call that should be made if there is suspicion that a loved one is being mistreated in a nursing home.