February 26, 2021 | Nursing Home Abuse
Elder neglect occurs when the person responsible for a patient’s well-being withholds proper care. It has been a common problem in nursing homes throughout the United States. Older adults depend on the nurses to administer medication, assist them in going to the bathroom, and protect against illnesses and injuries. Unfortunately, there has been a spike in abuse and neglect cases since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Some experts attribute this increase to various regulations in place to slow the spread of the virus. Family and friends are often unable to visit their loved ones. Nursing home residents who are vulnerable to mistreatment can’t defend themselves or speak up about what happened. They no longer have advocates fighting for their rights, so their health and safety are at risk. Additionally, nurses working in these facilities must also take necessary precautions to avoid falling ill. This may cause some to avoid caring for their patients entirely, leading to malnutrition, bedsores, and other medical issues. Without patient access to personal protective equipment, exposure to the virus is also a danger.
Problems Kentucky Nursing Homes Face Amid the Ongoing Pandemic
One Kentucky healthcare administrator claimed that visitation bans have prevented family members from observing warning signs of abuse or neglect and deprive the patients of the companionship and socialization they need for a healthier mental state.
The official also noted that staff shortages and lack of personal protective equipment have led to an increased infection rate at Kentucky facilities. Many workers have sick relatives, potentially exposing them to the virus. Without facemasks and gloves, they come in direct contact with their patients, resulting in new Covid cases. To prevent this from happening, some will avoid working altogether, causing stress to the remaining staff members. When nurses feel overworked and underappreciated, they may take their anger and frustration out on the residents, resulting in abuse and neglect.
Let Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC Help You Fight for Justice for Your Loved Ones
Your family member doesn’t deserve to face ongoing abuse or neglect at the hands of someone they thought they could trust. It is your job to advocate for their rights and ensure their safety. If you believe a staff member mistreated your loved one, you have the right to pursue financial compensation. Although no amount of money can change what happened, we hope it can provide economic relief, so you’re not forced to pay the medical bills yourself.
Contact Our Nursing Home Abuse Law Firm in Lexington Today To Get More Information
If you or a loved one are facing a nursing home abuse case, please call Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, for a free case evaluation with one of our nursing home abuse lawyers or contact us online.
Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC
325 W Main St #210, Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 550-2900