Local Rhode Island Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Releases New Webpage

The law firm of d’Oliveira & Associates have released a new Web page dedicated to providing information for families that have loved ones in care facilities. Nursing home abuse or neglect occurs when a nursing home or its staff members intentionally or unintentionally cause physical or emotional harm to a nursing home resident.

In many cases, this type of abuse or neglect can be prevented by taking reasonable safety steps, including hiring adequate staff members, who are experienced and have the required training to provide quality care to residents. Our Web page not only informs the public about the types of nursing home abuse and neglect that can occur and the circumstances in which they can occur, but also talks about what victims and their families can do to protect their rights and hold the negligent nursing homes accountable.

Common Nursing Home Injuries

Nursing home abuse and neglect may be physical or emotional in nature. Some of the common injuries that result from such abuse or neglect include:

• Bedsores: These types of injuries, also known as “dermal ulcers,” usually occur in patients who receive poor nutrition, poor personal hygiene, and those who are bed-ridden due to injury or illness. The most important step to prevent bed sores is to avoid long-term pressure on one part of the body. Nursing home patients with these issues need constant attention and care from staff members.
• Fall-related Injuries: Falls in nursing homes may occur because of patients’ health problems, wet floors, medications, poor lighting and lack of proper supports such as handrails or skid-resistant mats in bathrooms. When the elderly fall, they may suffer debilitating injuries such as hip or spinal fractures that may lead to a quick decline in health or even death.
• Infections: Nursing home residents are more vulnerable to infectious diseases because of their proximity to those who are ill. Just like hospitals, nursing homes need to practice infection control and take the necessary steps to ensure that their patients are safe and healthy.
• Abuse-related injuries: If your loved ones have bruises, burns, restraint marks or other types of physical injuries, it is important that you immediately ask questions and determine what occurred. Physical or sexual abuse in nursing homes must be promptly reported to local law enforcement.
• Medical errors: Each nursing home resident is required to have a care plan. However, inexperienced or overworked nursing home staff may make mistakes that may prove deadly. Examples are failure to follow the patient’s care plan or making an error with medication dosage.

Compensation for Victims

If you or a loved one has been injured while receiving care at a nursing home, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries, damages or losses. If you have lost a loved one due to nursing home abuse or neglect, you may be able to seek compensation by filing a wrongful death lawsuit. Our frim works with experienced nursing home lawyers, who charge no fee until they settle your case. They also can help you better understand your legal rights and options. For more information and a free case evaluation, please call us toll free at 1-800-992-6878.