What Are the Most Common Nursing Home Injuries in Illinois?

 Posted on July 07, 2020 in Personal Injury

Many people have family members who reside in nursing homes or similar long-term care facilities. The elderly make up a large population of those who live in assisted-living centers, but younger people who have certain medical conditions may also need the extra assistance that these facilities provide. In most cases, families entrust their loved one's safety with medical professionals. Unfortunately, reports of abuse or neglect at nursing homes are not uncommon in the United States, including in Illinois. It is important to be aware of signs and symptoms that indicate your relative may have suffered injuries at the hands of those who are supposed to protect him or her. In some instances, if a staff member or facility is found negligent, you or your loved one may be entitled to monetary compensation. 

Physical Injuries

Nursing homes and other care facilities have a standard of care they must follow when caring for their residents. Sadly, not every nursing home may take your family member’s well-being as seriously as you do. If nurses or other staff members fail to administer the proper amount of prescribed medication, a patient can overdose in some situations. In other cases, not receiving enough food can cause a resident to become severely ill. Inadequate building maintenance or neglecting to check on residents can lead to them slipping and hitting their heads or breaking their arm or leg. 

When care facilities fall below the acceptable standard of care, serious injuries can occur, including the following: 

• Bedsores/infections

• Cuts/lacerations

• Head trauma/concussion

• Malnourishment

• Broken/fractured bones

Emotional Damage

Not all injuries are of physical nature; psychological abuse can be just as damaging. When medical staff members yell, scream, curse, or berate nursing home residents, their mental and/or emotional health can deteriorate. This type of violence can cause patients to become withdrawn, depressed, and anxious. It can also lead to insomnia, eating disorders, and even suicidal thoughts. 

If you suspect your relative may be the victim of any kind of abuse while staying at a nursing or assisted-care residence, it is crucial that you speak to an experienced attorney to find out your legal options for holding those negligent parties accountable. The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 is a set of federal regulations governing the operation of nursing home facilities in the United States. In certain cases, an extended-care facility may be in violation of the Act, which means they can face additional penalties. 

Contact a Will County Personal Injury Lawyer

People are living longer these days, which means they may need assistance in later years. In some cases, a resident may suffer injuries due to negligence by medical staff or long-term care facility owners. The distinguished law firm of McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC, can help. Our knowledgeable and compassionate Joliet nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys will fight for your rights or your family member’s rights if they have suffered pain or duress as a result of an injury. To schedule your free consultation, call our office today at 815-727-0100.

Source: 

https://www.aarp.org/home-garden/livable-communities/info-2001/the_1987_nursing_home_reform_act.html#