Elder abuse is regrettably common in many nursing homes. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, and it can be perpetrated by staff members, caregivers, or even other residents. Elder abuse can have severe consequences for the health and well-being of older adults. Therefore, it must be spotted and addressed as soon as possible.
In most cases, you are bound to feel helpless if your loved one has sustained an injury or even died due to abuse. The situation becomes more complicated if the perpetrator is a fellow resident. If your loved one has been hurt by another resident, Dalli & Marino, LLP’s nursing home abuse lawyers in the Bronx can help you get justice and possibly the compensation you deserve.
Do Nursing Home Employees Have to Protect Residents from Other Residents?
Nursing home employees must provide a safe and secure environment for their residents, including protecting them from harm caused by other residents. But how can nursing home employees fulfill this duty to protect their residents from others who may bully or harass them while also caring for everyone else? Some ways to do this include:
- Monitoring: Nursing home employees should regularly check in on residents and pay attention to any signs of bullying or harassment. This usually involves conducting rounds, observing interactions between residents, and responding to complaints or concerns from residents or their families.
- Enforcing rules: Nursing homes should have clear policies to prevent bullying or harassment, and the employees should consistently enforce these rules. Sometimes, it could mean separating residents who are causing harm to others or disciplining those who violate the set guidelines.
- Providing support: If a resident is being bullied or harassed, nursing home employees should offer support and assistance. The help may entail connecting them with resources such as counseling and legal assistance, or enabling them to find ways to cope with the situation.
The bottom line is that elderly parents or relatives should be safe in nursing homes. Nursing home employees are required to protect their patients from harm, including the injuries other residents may inflict. Their duties include the obligation to ensure residents’ safety and well-being. If a nursing home employee fails to fulfill this duty and a patient is injured, the employee and the nursing home may be liable for any resulting damages.
How to Ensure Your Loved One is Well-Protected in the Nursing Home
If your elderly relative is in a nursing home, confirm that they are getting the care they deserve. Several steps you can take to ensure they are well-protected include:
- Research nursing homes: Look for a nursing home with a good reputation, clean and well-maintained, with staff who are trained to care for the elderly.
- Regularly visit your loved one: Make sure to visit your loved one regularly, as this can help ensure they receive proper care and attention. You can also notice any behavioral or physical changes in time.
- Communicate with staff: Keep in touch with the nursing home staff and express concerns about your loved one’s care.
- Review care plans: Ascertain your loved one has a care plan that addresses their specific needs and preferences.
- Advocate for your loved one: If you have concerns about your loved one’s safety or well-being, don’t be afraid to speak up and advocate for their rights.
If you or a loved one has experienced bullying or harassment in a nursing home, it’s essential to speak up about the issue and report it to the nursing home staff and management. Equally important is to document the incident and keep track of any related medical treatments or expenses. Seeking legal assistance can also help protect the victim’s rights.
Contact the Experienced New York Elder Abuse Lawyers at Dalli & Marino, LLP
Nursing home employees must protect their patients from other residents who may hurt them. If you or a loved one has experienced this type of abuse, don’t be afraid to speak up and seek the assistance of a lawyer. Remember, you have options, and you are not alone. We are here to empower and support you.
At Dalli & Marino, LLP, we understand the legal rights and remedies available to victims of negligence in nursing homes. Our lawyers also speak Spanish. In case you or a loved one has experienced this abuse, we encourage you to contact us at (888) 465-8790 or complete our online contact form.
