If you are like most people, you probably agonized over placing someone you love in a nursing home. You did all the research you could to find the facility that cares.
Federal and state regulations require that these homes provide reasonable levels of care based on industry standards. Therefore, this is information you should know about negligence cases.
Nursing home negligence
Nursing home negligence includes a variety of conditions. To protect its patients from claims of abuse, a nursing facility should avoid hiring individuals who intentionally harm patients. These homes should properly supervise and train their employees to prevent elder harm. In addition, nursing homes should establish and follow proper safety and resident health policies and provide necessary medical treatment immediately. Failure in these areas can lead to negligence.
Requirements for a negligence case
Negligence cases have a few key requirements. You need to show that the facility was legally required to provide reasonable care and did not do so. The injuries should be the direct result of this negligence and no other individual contributed. You ought to gather documentation that proves damages.
Possible damages in negligence cases
If you find evidence of negligence or abuse, you can sue the nursing home for damages through a personal injury or medical malpractice lawsuit. The damages in a lawsuit may include refunds of nursing home payments, mental or physical healthcare to treat the patient and payments for pain and suffering. The home should also return or reimburse the patient for any stolen item. You may also receive punitive and wrongful death damages if the neglect results in loss of life.
To prevent or detect the early warning signs of negligence, visit the nursing home often.