Security frequently isn’t the top concern for those looking into nursing homes. However, security can actually be very important for residents. In some cases, a lack of adequate security measures could lead to tragic outcomes for the residents living in a nursing home.
Especially in cases where a security-related oversight on the part of the nursing home results in fatal injuries for residents, surviving family members may potentially have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. What types of issues may arise due to inadequate security measures at a nursing home?
Resident-on-resident violence
People struggling with dementia can become aggressive due to fear. Other times, escalating conflict between residents could lead to an assault or worse. If nursing homes don’t monitor patient interactions and provide adequate security, they may have a degree of liability for the violence that occurs there.
Elopement incidents
Security measures can keep vulnerable residents in the facility, where they are safe. If nursing homes fail to identify those who are at risk of elopement and do not take steps to keep them secure, then the company that operates the nursing home may ultimately be liable if a resident dies because they leave the facility without support.
Intentional crimes
People with no associations with any residents may sometimes try to access nursing homes to steal from residents or commit other crimes. The workers themselves could assault or otherwise harm residents if the company is negligent about conducting background checks when hiring.
If negligent security practices led to a nursing home resident’s death, they may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. Documenting what occurred and consulting with an attorney can help families seek justice after a tragedy.