Inspections in California Find Nursing Homes Guilty of Resident Neglect

September 26, 2012

The California Department of Justice conducted a series of surprise inspections of nursing homes across the state. The investigations spanned over a two year period, beginning in January of 2010 and ending in March of 2012. Inspectors reported findings of "unacceptable nursing care" ranging from accusations of home staff providing residents with the wrong medication to other instances of staff completely neglecting the residents.

Neglect of nursing home residents not only causes heartache for those who expect the nursing home staff to provide care for their loved ones, it can also lead to injuries for the residents. These injuries include ulcers, infections and broken bones -- injuries that can lead to serious complications in the elderly.

The results of these surprise inspections are currently under review by California's Department of Public Health. The agency will determine if further action is required, which could include sanctions against offending nursing homes or potential closure.

Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Although the results of these inspection reports are concerning, it is important to remember that many nursing home facilities offer quality care to their residents. However, being aware of the warning signs associated with abuse or neglect in a nursing home can help to protect loved ones from serious harm.

It is important to watch for changes in a loved one's behavior, such as:
-Sudden inability to sleep or change in sleeping patterns
-Development of depression or confusion
-Unexplainable weight loss
-Withdrawal


In addition to behavioral changes, physical signs of abuse or neglect may also be present. Common physical signs like unexplainable bruises, burns, scars or lacerations on the body or the development of bed sores or other preventable conditions should be noted and discussed with the resident.

Unfortunately, abuse can occur in many different forms. Physical, emotional and neglectful practices are not the only types of abuse that can be present. Nursing home residents can also experience elder abuse in the form of sexual or financial abuse from their caregivers.

Steps to Take if Abuse Suspected

These various forms of elder abuse are not uncommon. According to California's Office of the Attorney General nearly 200,000 Californians are victimized every year. If the above signs are present or abuse is suspected for any reason, it is important to discuss concerns with the resident.

Unfortunately, beginning these conversations can be difficult. The elderly are often too ashamed to report abuse and attempting to approach the conversation by expressing concern and the ability to provide help may supply the resident with the opportunity he or she needs to confide the presence of abuse. If concerns of abuse are confirmed, it is important to report the abuse to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, local law enforcement agency or Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse.

In addition to filing an official report, compensation may be available to cover medical and rehabilitative expenses associated with the abuse, as well as pain and suffering, through a lawsuit against the nursing home and its employees.

Every situation is unique. If you or a loved one was victimized by elder abuse, contact an experienced nursing home abuse attorney to discuss your legal rights and remedies.

Article provided by Taylor & Ring
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