Making the choice to place a loved one in a nursing home is not an easy decision. If this is something your Kentucky family did in order to ensure a family member gets the care and support he or she needs, you probably assume that the facility will meet certain standards. It can be devastating to learn that your loved one suffered some kind of harm while living in a nursing home.
Negligence and abuse of any kind is unacceptable in a nursing home. Residents have certain rights, and when facilities and those who work there violate these rights, family members can take action. If you suspect abuse, mistreatment and other types of harm, you would be wise to take quick action to see about protecting your loved one and holding liable parties accountable.
Nursing home residents have rights
Those who live in nursing homes may be particularly vulnerable to negligence and abuse. They may be physically incapable of fending off abuse or telling someone what happened, or they may be in a mental state that leaves them unable to communicate. As a family member of a person living in a nursing home, it may be helpful to know about nursing home resident rights, which include:
- Nursing home residents are entitled to privacy regarding their medical records and fair treatment.
- Nursing home residents have the right to know about the care they are receiving and express their wishes.
- Nursing home residents have the right to speak up about concerns and expect someone will handle them in a timely manner.
These are just a few examples of the rights that nursing home residents have. If your loved one experienced neglect of any kind or a violation of any of his or her personal rights, there are options available to you. It is possible to hold facilities accountable for the negligent care of the residents entrusted to their care.
What should your family do next?
If you suspect something is wrong, one of the most beneficial steps you can take is to reach out for help. A close examination of the situation and evaluation of your case can reveal what options may be available to you. If there is evidence of abuse, neglect, medical malpractice and other types of wrongdoing, it may be grounds to move forward with a civil claim. This can be difficult for a family, but it is not something you have to walk through alone.