Sadly, 10% of nursing home residents suffer abuse, and in 2023, a study found that wrongful death cases in nursing homes were rising, caused by a backlog of home inspections. Staffing levels in US nursing homes are at an all-time low, which only serves to exacerbate problems. When there aren’t enough staff members, residents are neglected and are more likely to die before their time. In some cases, a lack of oversight can also lead to care workers abusing residents because they believe there won’t be any repercussions.
Wrongful death in nursing homes is a heartbreaking reality. When a loved one is neglected or abused in a nursing home and dies as a result, families can pursue legal action against the nursing home. However, recognizing signs of neglect and abuse is the first critical step. Being aware of red flags and acting quickly can help prevent further harm.
Signs of Neglect
Neglect is the failure of a nursing home to meet a resident’s basic needs. Signs of neglect include:
- Poor hygiene: Residents appear dirty, with soiled clothing and unkempt hair and nails. Bad odors may emanate from the resident.
- Unexplained weight loss: Dramatic weight loss may indicate that the residents are not being fed properly.
- Unsanitary living conditions: Dirt, bugs, and soiled bedding indicate improper housekeeping.
- Improper administration of medication: Residents don’t receive medications at the right time or dose.
- Ignoring medical needs: Staff ignore or fail to properly attend to wounds, bed sores or other medical issues.
- Lack of supervision: Residents are left unattended for long periods of time.
These signs indicate that nursing home staff are failing to provide adequate care. While a single issue may not constitute neglect, patterns of behavior require investigation.
Signs of Abuse
Abuse is the intentional infliction of physical pain or injury. Signs of physical abuse include:
- Bruises, cuts, puncture wounds: Especially injuries that are unexplained or seem inconsistent with normal activities.
- Broken bones: Broken bones that are blamed on a fall should be investigated.
- Burns: Cigarette burns and immersion burns point to abuse.
- Signs of being restrained: Bruises on wrists from overly tight restraints.
- Head injuries: Brain bleeds or concussions not caused by an accidental fall.
Besides physical abuse, staff may psychologically abuse residents by yelling, threatening or humiliating them. Families should watch interactions for signs of emotional abuse.
Take Action
The first priority is ensuring the resident’s safety. Remove them from the facility if possible or complain to management. Report concerns to state survey agencies who inspect nursing homes. Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare website lists quality ratings and regulatory violations.
Most importantly, document evidence. Take photographs of injuries or unsafe conditions. Keep detailed notes of incidents and your response. Build a paper trail of neglect and abuse. Tragically, evidence is necessary for bringing a wrongful death lawsuit against negligent nursing homes. By acting quickly, families can prevent further harm and seek justice for their loved one.
Talk to one of our experienced wrongful death lawyers today and let us fight for compensation on your behalf.
Visit our office at 536 Pacific Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133.
Call now for a free consultation on (415) 352-6264.