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Email UsNursing home abuse comes in many forms. At Rosner Law Offices, P.C., we know if you don’t know what constitutes nursing home abuse, you may not recognize it when you see it. As such, here’s a general overview of the most common types of nursing home abuse, as recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). No one should be subject to nursing home abuse. The vigilance of family members and friends can help put a stop to nursing home abuse – sometimes before it even starts.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse can occur in many different ways. For example, restraining a patient by tying them to a bed is abusive. Restraining a patient using “chemical restraints,” also known as over medicating, is also physical abuse. Of course, hitting, biting, and shoving nursing home residents also rises to the level of physical abuse.
Psychological or Emotional Abuse
The way staff and other resident’s treat someone can constitute psychological or emotional abuse. Yelling or threatening someone is emotionally abusive. Similarly, ridiculing or humiliating a nursing home resident constitutes emotional abuse. Finally, actively isolating a patient from family and friends is a form of psychological or emotional abuse.
Neglect
While actively isolating a patient can constitute emotional abuse, simply failing to engage with patients can be considered neglect. Any time a nursing home resident’s needs are not being met, from failing to provide basic hygiene, such as a shower or bath, to failing to administer prescription medication, to failing to assist after a fall can all constitute neglect.
Financial Exploitation
Financial exploitation can come in one of two forms. When a member of the nursing home staff uses a resident’s property without authorization, this is known as financial exploitation. Common examples include stealing a resident’s jewelry an/or money. From using a nursing home resident’s debit cards, to having the resident purchase them gifts in exchange for nursing home care, financial exploitation of nursing home residents is a very real concern.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual contact with a nursing home resident without their consent is sexual abuse. This includes rape, physical touching, and penetration. It also includes forcing a nursing home resident to watch others engage in sexual acts, including forcing them to watch pornographic movies or view pornographic pictures. Undressing a resident for a non-medical purpose or refusing to redress a resident after a medical exam may also constitute sexual abuse.
If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect nursing home abuse, contact the New Jersey Personal Injury Attorneys at Rosner Law Offices, P.C.. If your loved one has suffered nursing home abuse at the hands of a caregiver, they may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and their experiences of abusive contact. Our attorneys will work to protect the rights of your loved one by vigorously litigating any and all nursing home abuse issues. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling (856) 502-1655.