Signs Of An Abusive Nursing Home

When it comes time to put a loved one in a Tennessee nursing home, families often feel conflicted. Realizing that someone close to you can’t care for themselves at home any longer comes with many emotions. Plus, older adults often resist being moved to an unfamiliar place, even if it is in their best interests. Fortunately, there are many wonderful facilities with staff that provide the best care. Some facilities, however, fail to do so, and it’s beneficial if you’re aware of the signs of an abusive nursing home so you can act for your loved one if needed.

Poor Resident Health

Due to the nature of nursing homes, there will be residents with serious health issues. But when it comes to communicable diseases, widespread infection in the facility can be a red flag. It could be a sign that the staff are not properly washing their hands when working with ill residents. It can also be a sign of poor cleanliness, which can mean that the facility is not well-maintained.

Staff Turnover

Nursing home residents can benefit from seeing the same providers day to day as it helps them feel more comfortable in their environment. A facility that is constantly bringing in new staff due to firing employees or losing them to another facility can indicate that the facility is problematic. A high turnover rate can mean poor working conditions, which translates to less-than-ideal care for residents. If you visit your loved one and notice new staff each visit, you may consider investigating further to ensure your loved one is being cared for.

Inspection Compliance

Nursing homes should be kept clean and properly maintained to prevent illnesses and injuries to residents. Regular inspections, which happen at least once per year, can provide insight into how well a facility is doing. As a family member of a resident, you can request to view the state’s investigation reports to determine if there is a problem that needs to be addressed.

Is Your Loved One Being Abused?

The thought of someone mistreating your loved one in a facility that is supposed to be caring for them can be extremely troubling. You can act as an advocate for your loved one if you believe they are being abused or neglected in their nursing home. While they may not be able to speak up for themselves, you have the right to act on their behalf. If you have concerns about your loved one’s care, speak with an attorney familiar with Tennessee’s nursing home abuse laws to understand your legal options.