Typically, elder care professionals are able to provide an appropriate level of care for their residents. But unfortunately, there have been incidents of abuse and neglect in nursing homes. And there are a number of telltale signs that could indicate a nursing home patient is suffering from poor treatment. These signs include malnutrition, dehydration, bedsores and stiffening muscles.
Finding a parent, relative or friend in an unsatisfactory state could be quite upsetting. And you would be within your rights to want an explanation from the nursing home staff or administration. But you want to make sure that you get the full picture of the kind of treatment your relative is receiving.
The American Association of Retired Persons advises that when addressing a suspected case of patient mistreatment, it is best to take the matter straight to the caretaker you believe is involved. Keep your inquiries pleasant and avoid being confrontational. Make the conversation centered on the problems you see as well as possible solutions.
If, after talking to the caregiver, you decide that your concerns are not being properly addressed, you can move up the supervisory chain. Hopefully, you will eventually receive a measure of satisfaction and the issue will be resolved. If not, you may need to issue a complaint to the state agency that oversees the licensing of nursing homes.
However, if an act of negligence on behalf of a nursing home results in your loved one suffering a serious or fatal injury, then soliciting the services of a New York City medical malpractice attorney may be your best option for seeking justice. The attorney could work to see that those responsible are held to account for their actions.