Negligence in nursing homes may not always be as obvious as outright physical abuse, but it is definitely something to be concerned about. “The failure to meet an older adult’s basic needs” is how the CDC defines neglect in nursing homes.
The provision of healthy food, clean water, housing, clothing, hygienic conditions and basic medical care are among the necessities that those living in a care facility should receive. Failing to provide these services can leave patients with physical, mental and emotional distress. In extreme cases, neglect can be fatal.
Examples of nursing home neglect
Ninety-five percent of residents in nursing homes are thought to observe or experience some form of neglect regularly. Some examples of neglect include:
- Failing to contact a physician or nurse when necessary
- Ignoring a resident who is in physical crisis and is calling for assistance
- Not providing adequate water or food for the resident
- Allowing a patient who has soiled themselves to remain in that state for several hours
- Ignoring a resident with mobility impairments by abandoning them for hours at a time
- Not administering the required medication or care to a resident
In other words, whenever a nursing home resident’s basic needs go unmet, they are being neglected.
What causes negligence in nursing homes?
The primary cause of neglect is a need for more staff. Regretfully, when there is a staffing deficit at the facility, negligence is bound to occur.
Ineffective hiring procedures are another issue. It is necessary to conduct background checks on prospective employees to look for evidence of maltreatment and criminal history.
Neglect in nursing homes can also result from inadequate or subpar training. When it comes to medication, dietary requirements, and basic care, a service member with inadequate training could make some very grave errors.
If you or your loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect, contact the authorities and seek legal support.