Discovering that a loved one in a nursing home has been neglected or abused can be heartbreaking. While no amount of legal action can erase the trauma, there are important steps you can take to hold negligent nursing homes accountable and prevent future harm. Here are 10 steps to take if you suspect nursing home negligence.
1. Document Everything
Keep detailed records of all incidents, dates, times, people involved, and other relevant information. If possible, take photographs of any injuries or unsafe conditions. Keep a record of your or your loved one’s complaints to staff. Your documentation will be crucial evidence.
2. Report Issues Promptly
Don’t delay in alerting nursing home management about suspected negligence or abuse. Report frequently, by phone and in writing, until the issues are addressed. Be sure to follow up if solutions aren’t implemented. Also, file complaints with state regulatory agencies.
3. Consult an Attorney
Contact an attorney like us, as we are experienced in nursing home negligence cases. We can help you build a strong case, navigate the legal process, and advise you on the best course of action given the circumstances. We may conduct our own investigation by interviewing staff and reviewing records.
4. Request Medical Records
With your attorney’s help, obtain complete medical records for your loved one. Look for lapses in care, mistakes, or suspicious injuries not properly addressed. Records can help prove negligence.
5. Consider Moving Your Loved One
If negligence is ongoing at the nursing home, you may need to transfer your loved one elsewhere to prevent further harm. We can help obtain court orders if the nursing home refuses to release the resident.
6. Explore Financial Compensation
Victims of nursing home negligence may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and other damages. We can represent your interests in negotiations or lawsuits to recover maximum compensation.
7. Push for Criminal Charges
In cases of assault, battery, abuse, or egregious negligence, push for criminal charges against responsible staff. Your attorney can assist in contacting police and prosecutors. Criminal prosecution can enact justice and prevent negligent individuals from working in care facilities again.
8. Report to State Regulators
File a report about the negligence with your state health department’s nursing home regulatory agency. They have the authority to investigate and penalize nursing homes for violating standards of care through fines, probation or loss of license.
9. Warn Others
Once you have taken legal action, write reviews, contact media outlets and post on social media to spread awareness of the nursing home’s negligence. This can warn other families and spur systemic improvements.
10. Advocate for Change
Beyond your individual case, work with advocacy groups to lobby for stronger laws and oversight of nursing home standards. Share your story with legislatures and regulators. Your experience can help drive lasting reforms that improve safety and quality of care.
If you are faced with nursing home negligence, follow these steps to take action while prioritizing your loved one’s health and well-being. With persistence and the help of our law firm, you can obtain justice. Most importantly, you can prevent the negligence from happening to others.
You can visit our office at 10208 101st Ave Ozone Park, NY 11416.
Call now for a free consultation on (718) 441-5050.