Arizona Liability Law
Nursing Home Negligence: What You Need to Know
Straight answers on Arizona personal injury law from a Mesa-based firm.
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As our loved ones age, we often face difficult decisions about their care. Sometimes, we must entrust their well-being to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. We hope that these institutions will provide the highest level of care and attention to our loved one. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
At Wood Injury Law, we have seen far too many cases of nursing home negligence and abuse. It’s a heartbreaking situation that affects families all across Arizona and Arizona. In this article, we want to help you understand what nursing home negligence is. We’ll also show you how to recognize the signs and what you can do to protect your loved one.
What is Nursing Home Negligence or Abuse?
Nursing home negligence or abuse refers to any mistreatment or harm caused to a resident of a nursing home. This can also include long-term care facilities. Abuse can come from many people, including staff and residents. It can take many forms, including:- Physical abuse, such as hitting, kicking, or restraining a resident
- Emotional abuse, such as verbal or psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse, such as unwanted touching or sexual assault
- Neglect, such as failing to provide adequate medical care, food, water, or hygiene
- Financial abuse, such as stealing a resident’s money or possessions
- Medical malpractice, such as giving the wrong medication or failing to follow a doctor’s orders
- Failure to prevent falls, pressure sores, or infections
- Allowing residents to wander or elope
Signs of Nursing Home Negligence
It can be difficult to recognize the signs of nursing home negligence. This is especially true if your loved one is unable or unwilling to communicate with you. Some common indicators include:- Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries
- Changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn or agitated
- Unexplained weight loss or malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Bedsores or pressure ulcers
- Poor hygiene or unclean living conditions
- Lack of adequate medical care
- Medication errors
- Inappropriate use of restraints
- Wandering or elopement
- Reluctance to speak in the presence of staff members
- Fear or discomfort around certain staff members
Who May Be Liable for Nursing Home Negligence?
Several parties may be held liable for nursing home negligence or abuse, including:- The nursing home or long-term care facility
- The staff members who committed the abuse or negligence
- Third-party contractors, such as medical providers or maintenance workers
- Other residents who cause harm to your loved one
- The medical professionals involved in a resident’s treatment
- The owners or operators of the nursing home
Can You File a Lawsuit?
Yes, if you or a loved one has experienced nursing home negligence or abuse, you may be able to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for your losses. If the standard of care is not up to par and there are signs of abuse you may be able to seek compensation. Compensation may include medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages. Suing a nursing home for negligence can be complex, but an experienced nursing home negligence lawyer can help you navigate the legal process. Our attorneys will work to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of nursing home negligence or abuse, it is essential to take immediate action. To file a lawsuit, you need to prove that:- Your loved one was a resident of the nursing home or long-term care facility
- The nursing home or its staff members owed a duty of care to your loved one
- The nursing home or its staff members breached that duty of care by acting negligently or intentionally causing harm
- The breach of duty caused your loved one’s injuries or damages
