Nursing homes offer independent living for the elderly while ensuring that they have supervision and specialized care. However, elder abuse can be an unfortunate byproduct of these environments. While most healthcare workers strive to protect and help their patients, the same cannot be said for them all. If you or a loved one have experienced abuse in a nursing home, read below to learn how to file a report. Work with a Pike County, KY nursing home abuse lawyer for legal assistance and representation during this trying time.
What Are Some of the Signs of Abuse?
If your loved one is staying in a nursing home it is important that you are aware of the signs of abuse so you can identify them if they appear. Protecting the resident should be the first priority. Some of the signs of physical abuse or neglect are listed below.
- Seemingly random bruising, cuts, or burns
- Unexplained injuries or pain
- Any of the above that appears after you have not seen the patient in a few days or weeks
- Malnutrition
- Inadequate hygiene or cleanliness
- Bed sores
- Patient reports abuse
- Patient begs for food, water, to be changed, etc.
If you notice any of the above you should get your loved one out of the situation or monitor them more closely and begin the process of filing a report.
How Can I File a Nursing Home Abuse Report?
Reporting signs of abuse is crucial in ensuring that the person responsible is unable to harm your family member or anyone else. You will first need to gather evidence and relevant information regarding the suspected abuse. Write down the dates and times of any incidents, the names of the caretakers who may have been present, a statement from the patient if they are able, and more.
Complete one or more of the following steps to file a report of nursing home abuse and ensure justice for any victims.
- Contact the nursing home. You can file a complaint with the facility itself. Ask them to launch an investigation into the matter and present them with your gathered evidence. Some facilities will take reports more seriously than others. If their investigation does not pan out, you can file a report elsewhere.
- Call the Kentucky Elder Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 1-877-228-7384 anytime, 24/7. Speak with a representative and explain the situation. They may direct you to a form or take down your information over the phone.
- Fill out the online complaint form on the Kentucky government website. Include information about yourself and the patient and offer a detailed description of the incident or incidents.
- You can also call the Cabinet for Health and Family Services Adult Protection Branch to report abuse and inquire about protective services and counseling. Reach this branch at 1-800-752-6200 or 1-877-597-2331.
The health and safety of your loved one is of the utmost importance. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next, do not hesitate to contact a skilled attorney to obtain knowledgeable legal advice and support during this difficult time.
