It’s estimated that around 10% of nursing home residents endure some form of abuse or neglect every year. Nursing home residents can suffer severe emotional and physical injuries as a result of abuse and neglect, and in some cases, these injuries can be fatal. If you suspect that your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing, the first thing you should do is contact an attorney. Your attorney will immediately begin to investigate the case to determine who is liable for the nursing home injuries. Here are some of the parties that could be responsible:
Nursing Home
Nursing home residents are supposed to be provided and cared for by the nursing home facility, so when they are abused or neglected, the facility is often held liable. For example, the nursing home can be liable if the abuse or neglect occurred because the nursing home failed to perform background checks or properly train new employees. The facility is also liable if the abuse or neglect could have been prevented if the employees and residents had been properly monitored.
These are just a few of the many circumstances under which a nursing home can be held liable. In general, any time the abuse or neglect occurred at the hands of a nursing home employee, the facility will be liable.
Visitors
It’s possible that someone who comes to the facility to visit your loved one or another resident is responsible for the abuse. For instance, if someone is visiting your loved one and stealing blank checks from her, this is financial abuse. If you find out that a visitor who is not associated with the nursing home is abusing your loved one, this person can be liable for your loved one’s injuries. The nursing home may also be held liable for not providing adequate security.
Medical Staff
Nursing homes typically have contracts with local doctors who visit the facility on a regular basis to care for residents. It’s possible that these third party healthcare providers are responsible for your loved one’s injuries. Depending on the situation, you may have a nursing home abuse or medical malpractice claim. It’s best to consult with an attorney to discuss your legal options.
If you believe your loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, it’s important to act quickly. Contact Reisch Law Firm today so we can begin the process of finding a new home for your loved one and seeking justice against those who have harmed him or her. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
