When you move your loved one into a nursing home, you expect them to be treated well. This is what makes cases of nursing home abuse so horrible. You placed your trust in a facility and its staff, and now your loved one has gone through a terrible experience. Holding these parties accountable is something that a Prince George’s County nursing home neglect lawyer can help you with. We can also show you how to report bad behavior to the state.
What Are Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse can be physical, psychological, or financial in nature. It’s important to look out for any signs that your loved one is not themselves. You should watch out for things like:
- Bedsores
- Unexplained injuries
- Missing belongings or money
- Obviously unsafe conditions
- Malnutrition or dehydration
- Mood swings
- Signs that your loved one fears staff members
How Can I Report Nursing Home Abuse?
If you suspect that your loved one is being mistreated, you can submit a complaint to the Office of Health Care Quality. The OHCQ allows you to call in complaints, mail in written complaints, or file one online. You may also file a report with Adult Protective Services, or APS, if you believe that your relative is being financially exploited. If you make reports to both agencies, you should also let each agency know that you have filed a complaint with the other.
If your loved one is in imminent danger, you should still submit a complaint. The top priority should be calling the local police though. The OHCQ and APS can take time to launch their investigations and should not be relied on if you immediately need help.
How Do I Make a Nursing Home Abuse Case?
You should gather any evidence that you can to support your accusations of nursing home abuse. This can include:
- Photos of bedsores or injuries
- Pictures or videos of unsafe conditions
- Eyewitness reports of abuse
- The diary or journal of your loved one
- Medications given to your loved one
After a complaint has been filed with the state, you may also be able to pursue compensation in a personal injury case. Your loved one could be awarded damages that help make up for the mental and psychological distress that they went through. Their compensation could also help address any medical costs they have faced as a result of the abuse.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
A lawyer from our firm can help you find the proper avenue for your complaint whether you are in Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, D.C. We can also help you gather evidence and negotiate for fair compensation. You are not required to hire a lawyer in cases of nursing home abuse, but you should at least meet with our team to learn more about what we can do.
Schedule a Consultation Today
So if your loved one has been mistreated or neglected, don’t seek justice on your own. Contact McCarthy, Winkelman & Mester, L.L.P. and ask to schedule a free case consultation. We can tell you more about your options and what our team can do to help you fight for fair compensation.
