As a Kansas City nursing home abuse attorney, we have witnessed the devastating effects of elder abuse in nursing homes. One of the most common and overlooked forms of abuse is neglect, which often manifests as bedsores or pressure ulcers. These painful sores are not only a sign of inadequate care but can also lead to severe health complications if left untreated.
Whether your loved one suffered a fall, pressure ulcer, or some other injury at a nursing home, with The Steele Law Firm, LLC, you can know that you have a dedicated and experienced team focused on protecting nursing home residents and their rights. Call us today for more information at 816-466-5947.
Identifying Bedsores: The First Step Towards Protection
Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure on the skin. They most often develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone. In nursing homes, these sores are usually a clear indication of neglect and poor quality care.
Learn How To Identify Bedsore
The first step towards protecting your loved ones from neglect in a nursing home is learning how to identify bedsores. As a nursing home abuse lawyer in Kansas City, it is advised that families look for unexplained sores or wounds on their loved one’s body, especially in areas where their skin is in constant contact with a bed or wheelchair.
These sores can range from red patches on the skin (stage 1) to deep wounds exposing muscle or bone (stage 4). It’s important to note that bedsores are painful and can lead to serious infections if not treated promptly.
Understanding Elder Abuse: A Kansas City Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Perspective
Elder abuse goes beyond physical harm; it includes emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect. Neglect, which often leads to bedsores, is one of the most common forms of elder abuse in nursing homes. Kansas City nursing home attorneys have seen how this form of abuse can drastically affect an elderly person’s quality of life.
Neglect can be intentional, such as withholding care for punitive reasons, or unintentional, resulting from inadequate staffing or training. Regardless of the cause, neglect is a form of abuse and should be addressed immediately.
FAQs
What are the signs of elder abuse in nursing homes?
Signs of elder abuse can include unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behavior, poor hygiene, weight loss, and bedsores. If you notice any of these signs, contact a Kansas City nursing home abuse attorney immediately.
How can I prevent my loved one from getting bedsores?
Regular repositioning is crucial in preventing bedsores. However, if your loved one is in a nursing home, it’s their responsibility to ensure this happens. If they fail to do so and your loved one develops bedsores, contact a nursing home abuse lawyer in Kansas City.
What should I do if I suspect elder abuse?
If you suspect elder abuse, report it immediately to the local Adult Protective Services agency and consult a Kansas City nursing home attorney for legal advice.
Can I sue a nursing home for neglect?
Yes, you can sue a nursing home for neglect if they fail to provide adequate care, resulting in harm to your loved one. A Kansas City nursing home abuse lawyer can guide you through this process.
What can a nursing home abuse attorney do for me?
A nursing home abuse attorney can help you understand your rights, guide you through the process of reporting abuse, and represent you in any legal proceedings against the nursing home or its staff.
Taking Action: How a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney in Kansas City Can Help
If you suspect that your loved one is being neglected or abused in a nursing home, it’s crucial to take immediate action. A nursing home abuse attorney in Kansas City can guide you through the process of reporting the abuse to the appropriate authorities and taking legal action if necessary.
Legal action may involve filing a lawsuit against the nursing home for negligence or breach of contract. In some cases, holding individual staff members accountable for their actions may also be possible.
As a reputable nursing home abuse lawyer in Kansas City, The Steele Law Firm is ready to fight for elderly rights, championing against neglect or abuse of any kind—because dignity should be a non-negotiable in anyone’s later years in life. Call us today for more information at 816-466-5947.
