Nursing home abuse is a serious concern nationally, as well as in Palm Beach Gardens. Troubling statistics from the The National Center on Elder Abuse show that 44% of nursing home residents reported suffering from a form of abuse and that 95% reported they suffered neglect. Nursing home residents in Palm Beach Gardens have specific rights and protections under the law, and it is important to report any nursing home abuse or neglect to a family member, staff member, authorities, or Palm Beach Gardens nursing home abuse lawyer as soon as possible.
A professional Palm Beach Gardens nursing home abuse lawyer could help protect you or your loved one’s rights, and work to ensure that they receive the respect, care, and dignity they deserve. If you or a loved one have suffered from nursing home abuse, consider reaching out to a skilled injury attorney today to discuss your legal options.
Knowing the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
It is important for family members to understand the signs of nursing home abuse, both to stop current abuse and to prevent it in the future. In many cases of nursing home abuse, there will be visible evidence of abuse such as unexplained bruising, red marks, bed sores, cuts, and scrapes. A sudden change in weight not connected with an underlying medical condition may also serve as an indication.
A nursing home resident who is subject to nursing home abuse may undergo emotional changes such as sudden fits of anger, long periods of depression, and unpredictable mood changes. Another sign of nursing home abuse can be an ongoing medical problem such as recurring and lengthy infections, frequent fevers and colds, and inconsistent medical tests. Do not hesitate to reach out to a qualified Palm Beach Gardens nursing home abuse lawyer to learn more.
Laws Protecting Nursing Home Residents
Florida legislature has enacted several laws and regulations designed to protect nursing home residents in Palm Beach Gardens and all across the state. One of the most important laws is the Nursing Home Bill of Rights, codified in Fla. Stat. 400.022. This statute outlines a set of basic rights that all nursing home residents have and creates standards for nursing homes to follow. Some of the protections this law affords nursing home residents include the right to:
- Receive dignity, respect, and fairness
- Be free from any form of physical, mental, emotional, or financial abuse
- Receive necessary services to maintain and preserve health and well-being
- Select a pharmacy and physician
- Refuse suggested treatment and take part in health care planning
- Receive written and oral information regarding medical and nursing services
- Participate in various religious, social, and community activities
If a nursing home member has felt as if any of these rights have been abused, they should contact a weathered Palm Beach Gardens nursing home abuse lawyer as soon as possible in order to discuss their case.
Working with a Palm Beach Gardens Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
It is important to act when faced with nursing home abuse. Studies show that nursing home abuse is severely underreported, which places more nursing home residents at risk of abuse. If you or a loved one suffered abuse in a nursing home, contact a Palm Beach Gardens nursing home abuse lawyer today to discuss your rights, ways to prevent future abuse, and how to recover compensation for any injuries and losses today.
Speak to a member of our team today.