Many New Mexico residents may hope to be able to care for their elderly relatives when those loved ones are no longer able to care for themselves. Unfortunately, some individuals may need more care than their family is able to provide. As a result, relatives may become residents of nursing homes. However, nursing home neglect could lead families to think about other options.
Two nursing homes in another state are currently drawing attention after being fined for neglect and abuse. It was reported that at one facility a resident fell 15 times over the course of four months. The resident had apparently been left alone on certain occasions before the falls took place, and the negligence on the part of the staff may have contributed to those accidents. It was also reported that other residents had also suffered falls, and in separate incidents, some residents developed sores that were not properly checked.
The other facility was fined by the Department of Public Health due to a staff member verbally abusing residents and giving unauthorized medication to a patient. It was reported that the staff member was heard making abusive remarks on more than one occasion. That employee had also given the resident melatonin without a doctor’s order.
Unfortunately, instances of nursing home neglect can happen at locations all over the country, including in New Mexico. As a result, residents of those homes could become seriously injured or ill. If a patient does suffer such outcomes due to neglect or abuse, there may be caused to file a medical malpractice claim against those who could be held liable. A successful claim could allow parties to be awarded compensation for resulting damages.
Source: Hartford Courant, “Nursing Homes Fined Following Lapses In Care, Verbal Abuse Of Residents“, Kate Farrish, Sept. 25, 2014
