When you or a loved one transitions to residency in a nursing home, you expect constant care with a gentle and thoughtful touch. The possibility of negligence might exist at the back of your mind, but you likely prefer to have faith in the professionals entrusted with your treatment.
Allowing for negligence is itself a form of abuse for which the entire nursing home is responsible, not just the staff member in question. When you know the steps that assisted living facilities should take to ensure your quality of care, you can take the best course of action if you do become a victim of negligence or abuse.
Assign responsibilities appropriately
Every nurse and staff member in an assisted care facility has their own strengths, weaknesses, and personality. Nurses should only carry out duties for which they have the full training and confidence to perform. Similarly, staff members in managerial positions should not assign nurses to residents with whom they have difficulty getting along. Sour relationships can give way to spiteful tendencies, even if they are unintentional.
Enforce facility policies
Every nursing home should have a strict set of policies and procedures that apply to most any situation that might occur in the facility. When staff members adhere closely to these policies, there is little risk that residents will experience abuse or negligence. However, it is also up to the leaders within the nursing home to enforce these guidelines as necessary.
If a nursing home fails to take proactive steps toward reducing instances of negligence, you might have grounds for filing a malpractice suit if you or a loved one suffers as a result. Keep in mind that a nursing facility that does not maintain compliance with federal requirements may be ineligible for payment under Medicare and Medicaid programs.
