Author: MJT
The Dangers of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse is a problem that can be somewhat hard to
determine. At times, the nursing home resident can’t communicate their
situation so the abuse can go undetected for a while. However, by paying
attention to how the patient is being cared for and by visiting often, you can
often avoid any problems with nursing home abuse.
Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Often by observing how the resident is treated and being
aware of any doctor prescribed medications or treatments you can determine if a
patient is being cared for appropriately. One of the most common signs of
nursing home abuse can be “accidents” or excessive trips to a hospital for
physical issues.
This can often involve broken bones, frequent illnesses, or
even excessive death counts at the nursing home facility. Excessive bed sores,
inadequate daily care and general disregard for everyday necessities are also
bad signs.
If the resident seems to be medicated or sedated
excessively, that can also be a warning sign of nursing home abuse. You usually
want to be aware of what the doctor has prescribed the resident so that if
there are any changes with their medications you are aware of it. This way you
are not unaware of their situation and will know if they are being excessively
medicated.
Changes in physical appearance such as rapid, excessive
weight loss can be a sign of nursing home abuse as well. This can also indicate
dehydration or malnutrition. The facility may be neglecting daily food
requirements and helping the resident eat which can lead to weight loss and
dehydration.
If the facility seems unclean or does not observe sanitary
practices, you may need to look further into what kind of care the resident is
receiving. Little inconsistencies can add up to a situation in which the
patient is the victim of abuse or neglect.
If you suspect nursing home abuse, check with local agencies
first to inquire about the facility’s record and ask them to check into the
nursing home. Keep records of observations and details you notice that seem to
add up to a bigger picture of nursing home abuse.
Hopefully with intervention from the right agencies, the
problems can be corrected and the residents will be protected. However,
changing facilities is always an option and should be definitely considered if
you confirm the nursing home abuse.
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