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You may think your loved one is in a safe place when they go to a nursing home. Maybe you even live close by, so you can check up on them frequently. However, some nursing homes are not what they appear. Some may be overmedicating their patients, which is generally due to undertrained staff. This can be especially dangerous for senior citizens who have weaker immune systems, or who rely on their various medications.
If you think your family member is being overmedicated at a nursing home, the lawyers at Dalli & Marino, LLP can help. Our Spanish-speaking and compassionate staff are experienced in knowing the signs of nursing home abuse, and we can help you get the compensation you may be entitled to. Here are some red flags that your loved one is being over-medicated at their nursing home:
What Is Overmedication?
Overmedication is when a nursing home staff member administers medication to a resident in an amount that is greater than necessary or healthy. Overmedication occurs when a nursing home resident is overmedicated intentionally or due to undertrained staff not knowing how to administer the right dosage. When overmedication occurs, it can lead to serious health problems for the resident, and may even result in death.
What Are the Signs of Being Overmedicated?
If you think a loved one may be overmedicated, look for these warning signs. If you see more than one of these signs in a nursing home resident, it may be a sign of overmedication:
- Sedation or sleepiness
- Lethargy
- Inability to concentrate
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Agitation or aggression
- Restlessness
- Hyperactivity
Overmedication can have serious consequences, including an increased risk of falls, pneumonia, or other health-related issues. If you see any of these warning signs, talk to the nursing home staff and ask about the drugs they are taking.
Also, some nursing homes overmedicate residents in order to make them easier to manage. This is another type of abuse that can lead to serious repercussions. If you think your loved one may be the victim of neglect, it’s important to reach out to a nursing home abuse lawyer as soon as possible.
What Steps Can I Take If I Suspect Accidental or Purposeful Medication Errors?
If you believe that your loved one may be a victim of accidental or purposeful medication errors, there are a few steps you can take. First, speak to the nursing home staff about your concerns and ask for clarification on any medication changes or overmedication. You can also request to speak to the nursing home administrators if you have further questions or concerns.
Also, keep a close eye on your loved one and make sure they are getting the proper care and medication they need. You can speak to other residents to see if they have noticed anything as well. If you are still concerned or notice any signs of overmedication, you can speak to law enforcement or nursing home abuse lawyers.
Contact Dalli & Marino, LLP Today For Nursing Home Abuse Help
If you suspect that your loved one is being overmedicated, it’s important to reach out to the nursing home abuse lawyers at Dalli & Marino, LLP today. If you see more than one of the signs of overmedication in a loved one, it may be a sign that they are being abused or neglected. Our staff is experienced in elder care abuse cases. We’re here to stand up for you and your family and make sure you receive the compensation you may be entitled to.
If you have any questions or concerns about your loved one, reach out to us today by contacting us online or by calling 888-465-8790. We are here to help you and your family get justice.
