Physical Abuse at a Nuring Home

It is a difficult decision to put a loved one in a nursing home, but sometimes it is unavoidable. Even with careful research, you may still end up with a nursing home that fails to provide the safety, care, and treatment your loved one needs and deserves.

Approximately 1.5 million people live in nursing homes in the U.S. and while the majority of cases of physical abuse go unreported, it is estimated that 1 in 10 older individuals suffer from abuse while in the care of nursing home staff.

Why Does Physical Abuse Occur in Nursing Homes?

Nursing home abuse is usually the result of understaffing, poorly trained staff, poor management, and problems that arise from these issues. Victims are often afraid to report the abuse, or simply cannot, and family members are often unaware of the abuses their loved ones suffered.

It is important to understand the signs of physical abuse and to report anything that may seem to be “off” or wrong to the police and the Illinois Department of Public Health immediately. Signs of physical abuse include:

• Sudden behavior changes
• Emotional outbursts
• Fractures, unexplained bleeding, bruises, burns, or other physical marks
• Sudden depression
• Sudden fear of nursing home staff
• Staff not allowing you to visit a loved one or staff acting strange around you
• Social withdrawal
• Direct accusations of abuse
• Drowsy, agitated, confused behavior
• Weight loss or dehydration

What Constitutes Physical Abuse in Nursing Homes?

Physical abuse in a nursing home can be intentional physical harm or the denial of basic needs. Physical abuse is not just limited to overt acts of violence, however, and can also include the following:

• Excessive force-There is a definite difference between assisting in daily needs and using excessive force while giving this aid. Signs of excessive force include bruised wrists or arms, internal bleeding, cuts, broken teeth, or hair loss.
• Battery-Slapping, kicking, or hitting are completely intolerable and uncalled for.
• Withholding medication or using medications that were not prescribed-Patients have a right to the medications they are prescribed. If a staff member is withholding medication or dispensing medications that were not prescribed to your loved one, they are acting in an abusive and illegal manner.
• Overuse of restraints-Nursing home staff that overuse physical or chemical restraints to control patient behavior without written physician approval or in an emergency situation are in violation of the Nursing Home Reform Act (OBRA’87). Restraints increase the risk for patients to develop pressure sores and other complications.
• Withholding food and/or water-Depriving a patient of food and/or water because they have issues with swallowing or because the nursing home is understaffed can lead to malnutrition or dehydration. It is illegal to withhold this basic care.

If you suspect that your loved one is in immediate danger, it is important to contact 911. Once your loved one is safe, it is advised that you discuss your concerns with an experienced personal injury lawyer. 844 See Mike can review your case, help hold those who are responsible accountable, prevent future abuse, and help your loved one get the compensation, care, and peace of mind they deserve.

If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a long-term care facility, contact 844 See Mike, for a free consultation. We are a Chicago injury law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. 844 See Mike, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire us–just the opportunity to seek justice.