One of the most important responsibilities of a nursing home is to closely monitor its residents. Unfortunately, there are times when patients are not monitored effectively, which can lead to serious injuries or even death.
Lack of Communication
One of the most obvious signs that a patient is not being monitored is a lack of communication from the staff. If you find it hard to get in touch with the nursing home staff or if they don’t return your calls, there may be a problem with the level of care your loved one is receiving.
Unexplained Injuries
If your loved one has unexplained injuries, this may be an indicator that they are not being monitored properly. Patients left unsupervised can fall, trip, or slip, resulting in broken bones, head injuries, or other serious injuries. If the nursing home staff cannot explain how the injury occurred, it may be time to investigate further.
Poor Hygiene
Patients who are not being monitored may also have poor hygiene. You may notice that your loved one’s room is dirty, or they may have poor personal hygiene. This is a sign that the staff is not providing your loved one with the necessary care and attention.
Worsening Health Conditions
If your loved one’s health deteriorates, it may be a sign that they are not being monitored properly. If left unmonitored, patients can develop infections, bedsores, and other serious health conditions that can worsen over time. If you notice your loved one’s health deteriorating, speaking with the nursing home staff and investigating further is important.
Medication Errors
Patients who are not monitored properly may also experience medication errors. This can include missed doses, incorrect dosages, or administering the wrong medication altogether. If your loved one is experiencing unusual symptoms or side effects, it may be a sign that they are not receiving the appropriate medication.
Dangers of Poor Monitoring
Poor monitoring can lead to serious injuries and health conditions for nursing home residents. Not monitored, patients can fall, resulting in broken bones, head injuries, and other serious injuries. They can also develop infections, bedsores, and other health conditions that can worsen over time if left untreated.
In addition to physical injuries, poor monitoring can lead to emotional distress for patients and their families. Patients not receiving the appropriate care may become depressed, anxious, or withdrawn. This can significantly impact their quality of life and overall well-being.
Compensation for Negligence
You may be entitled to compensation if your loved one has suffered due to poor monitoring in a nursing home. Nursing homes are legally obligated to provide residents with a safe and secure environment. They may be liable for injuries or damages if they fail to meet this obligation.
You can be compensated for damages due to negligence, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other costs from the injury or condition. Speaking with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your legal options and guide you through seeking compensation is important.
The Bottomline
Monitoring is an essential part of providing quality care to nursing home residents. If you notice that your loved one is not being monitored properly, it’s important to speak with the nursing home staff and investigate further. Poor monitoring can lead to serious injuries, health conditions, and emotional distress for patients and their families. You may be compensated if your loved one has suffered due to poor monitoring.
Jehl Law Group has the best nursing home abuse lawyers. We have over 65 years of combined experience handling nursing homes and elder abuse and neglect. Get in touch with us.