Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse and neglect occur when nursing home doctors and staff do not provide proper care for their residents. The signs of nursing home abuse are often difficult to detect, because victims cannot always speak for themselves. The following are, however, several common signs of nursing home abuse:
- Untreated bed sores
- Open wounds, cuts, bruises, or welts
- Torn clothing or broken personal items
- Bruising in a pattern that suggests the use of physical restraints
- Excessive and rapid weight loss
- Fleas, lice, or dirt on the elder or in the room
- Abnormally pale complexion
- Persistent odor of feces or urine
- Poor personal hygiene or other unattended health problems
A careless staff may indicate that an elder is suffering from nursing home neglect. Several conditions may suggest neglect:
- Lack of proper heating or cooling in the nursing home
- Caregiver’s inability to explain or answer questions about the elder’s physical or mental condition
- Caregiver’s refusal to allow visitors to see the elder alone
- Caregiver’s permitting or failing to notice the elder to wander off the premises
- A sudden change in the elder’s medication or daily routine
If you suspect that a loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, contact a Florida nursing home negligence lawyer as soon as possible. The experienced nursing home negligence lawyers at John Bales Attorneys understand that addressing nursing home abuse can be an emotionally demanding endeavor that requires extensive preparation and legal expertise. Our knowledgeable team of attorneys and case managers will work closely with you, to help to provide the health and safety of your loved one. To discuss your concerns with a Florida nursing home and neglect attorney, complete a FREE Online Consultation Form or call us toll free 1-800-CALL JOHN (1-800-225-5564) 24 hours, 7 days a week.