If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse, Put a Stop to It Right Away
Residents of nursing homes are among our most vulnerable citizens. Most are old, and most are frail. Some may be incapable of articulating what they need or want. If abuse is occurring, it may not be possible for them to tell you. If you suspect abuse or negligence, it is up to you to protect their rights.
The personal injury attorneys of Humphrey, Farrington & McClain have been protecting the rights of the elderly and infirm residents of institutional care facilities since 1984. We know the regulations and we know when something is not right. If you suspect that your loved one is suffering neglect or abuse in a nursing home or group home, you are probably right. Talk to an experienced member of our nursing home negligence litigation team right away.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Negligence or Abuse
- Talk to the management: Often, negligence or abuse is the result of one improperly trained member of the staff. If staff abuse is suspected, facility management should look into the problem immediately.
- Gather the details: Discuss the conditions of care with your loved one. Nursing homes are required to follow a prescribed nutrition and medical plan. If your loved one does not like being told what to eat, it does not mean they are the victims of abuse. On the other hand, if you have reason to believe that a staff member is taking unnecessary measures to force your loved one to eat, management should be notified immediately.
- If you notice signs of physical abuse: Seek an immediate investigation into a physical injury such as excessive bruising or a broken bone. An elderly resident may be too frightened to tell you what really happened if the injury was the result of assault by a staff member or resident. Make sure management is aware of the injury and inform the manager that you intend to seek an independent investigation.
- Talk to an experienced personal injury attorney: After you get your loved one the necessary medical care and report the problem to management, talk to an experienced nursing home negligence litigation attorney at Humphrey, Farrington & McClain right away. Your attorney will start an independent investigation to determine the extent of injury and whether the nursing home or group home can be held liable for damages.
Why It Is Often Necessary to Sue
Nursing homes are required to provide high standards of care for their residents. Unfortunately, many cut corners with staff, training and daily operations. Most nursing homes take their responsibilities to residents seriously. Many, however, receive multiple citations for violations over the course of a year or two. Filing a lawsuit to seek a significant settlement or jury award is often the only way to put an end to these unsafe business practices.
Learn More At Our Nursing Home Injuries Practice Center
From our offices in Independence, Missouri, our lawyers represent clients in communities throughout Missouri, Kansas and the United States.
Contact us to arrange a free consultation.
