Nursing home neglect is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for older adults. Neglect occurs when a nursing home fails to provide adequate care and attention to residents, resulting in physical harm, emotional distress, and other negative outcomes. In this page, we will explore some of the potential causes of neglect in nursing homes.

Infections

Neglect can occur if nursing homes fail to properly manage infections, which can lead to a range of negative health outcomes for residents. This can include infections such as gastroenteritis, MRSA, sepsis, skin infections, soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory infections. Nursing homes must have proper infection control measures in place to prevent the spread of infections, including proper sanitation, isolation protocols, and appropriate medical care. Neglect can occur if nursing homes fail to implement these measures or fail to properly monitor residents for signs of infection. If left untreated, infections can lead to serious complications and even death, making it crucial for nursing homes to take proper precautions and promptly address any infections that arise.

Amputations

One potential cause of neglect in nursing homes is a failure to prevent and treat conditions that can lead to amputations. This can include infections, pressure sores, and other medical issues that are not properly addressed by nursing home staff. Additionally, some residents may require specialized equipment or care to prevent amputations, such as diabetic foot care or proper wheelchair use.

Choking

Choking incidents can also be a sign of neglect in nursing homes. Nursing home staff must ensure that residents receive proper nutrition and hydration, and that they are able to safely consume food and drinks. Neglect can occur if staff fail to properly supervise residents during meals or fail to provide appropriate food and drink options.

Dehydration and Malnutrition

Dehydration and malnutrition are common signs of neglect in nursing homes. These issues can occur when nursing home staff fail to provide residents with enough food and water or fail to ensure that they are able to consume food and water safely. Additionally, residents with specific dietary needs or medical conditions may require specialized care to prevent dehydration and malnutrition.

Diabetic Care

Residents with diabetes require specialized care to manage their condition and prevent serious complications. Neglect can occur if nursing home staff fail to provide appropriate diabetic care, such as monitoring blood sugar levels, administering insulin, and ensuring that residents receive appropriate nutrition and hydration.

Influenza

Influenza outbreaks in nursing homes can be a sign of neglect if the facility does not have proper infection control measures in place. This can include failing to provide flu vaccinations to residents and staff, failing to isolate residents who are sick, and failing to properly clean and sanitize the facility.

Poor Hygiene

Neglect can also occur if nursing home staff fail to maintain proper hygiene practices. This can include failing to assist residents with bathing and grooming, failing to provide clean clothing and bedding, and failing to properly clean and sanitize the facility.

Wrongful Death

Neglect can ultimately lead to wrongful death in nursing homes. This can occur if nursing home staff fail to properly monitor and care for residents, leading to medical complications or other issues that result in death.

Medication Errors

Neglect can also occur if nursing home staff make medication errors. This can include failing to administer medications as prescribed, providing incorrect medications or dosages, and failing to properly monitor residents for side effects or complications.

Understaffing

Understaffing can also be a potential cause of neglect in nursing homes. When facilities do not have enough staff members to properly care for residents, neglect can occur. Staff members may be rushed or overwhelmed, leading to mistakes and oversights.

Wandering

Neglect can also occur if nursing home staff fail to properly supervise residents who are prone to wandering. This can include failing to provide appropriate barriers or monitoring devices or failing to adequately staff the facility to ensure that residents are properly supervised.

Combating Neglect

Nursing home neglect can have devastating consequences for older adults. By understanding the potential causes of neglect, we can work to prevent it and ensure that nursing home residents receive the care and attention they deserve. It is important to hold nursing homes accountable for neglect and ensure that residents and their families have access to resources and support to address neglect. If you suspect that a loved one has been the victim of neglect in a nursing home, it is important to report it immediately to the appropriate authorities and seek legal counsel. By taking action, we can work together to prevent neglect and protect the safety and well-being of nursing home residents.