If your loved one lives in a nursing home, it is entirely normal to have concerns. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse is common in Maryland. Seniors who rely on these facilities to provide for their needs and medical care can easily be abused or neglected. Nursing home abuse usually occurs when the staff is inadequately trained and lacks the patience necessary to provide necessary care to patients. Here are some tips on what to do if you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home malpractice.
Identify the Signs
If you believe your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, there are some warning signs you will need to look out for. Some common symptoms of nursing home abuse include:
- Bedsores
- Bleeding
- Emotional and behavioral changes
- Silent when around staff
- Unexplained financial transactions
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bruises around the genitals
- Physical pain or discomfort
It is essential to pay close attention to your loved one and their demeanor to determine if they are being abused or neglected. To build a strong case, it is good to take images or videos of their injuries and observe any changes in behavior.
How to Report Nursing Home Malpractice
The next step in reporting nursing home malpractice is knowing who to contact to make the report. Once you have identified the signs or symptoms of nursing home malpractice, you should contact the appropriate authorities as soon as possible.
Local Police
The fastest way to report nursing home abuse is to contact your local police. Call 911 to get immediate help for the issue. By contacting the police, you ensure that your loved one is treated by medical professionals right away. Also, the police are made aware that the nursing home is not providing residents with adequate care.
Eldercare Locator
Eldercare locator allows you access to senior advocacy services in your area. Using your zip code, the site will provide you with the closest resource centers and government agencies that specialize in the safety of seniors.
Medicare and Medicaid
Both of these government agencies have dedicated representatives that help the families of the elderly residents of nursing homes identify, report, and follow up on issues of abuse or malpractice.
If your loved one suffered severe nursing home neglect or abuse, you might be entitled to legal representation. Contact us today to learn more.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.