Home healthcare is a crucial service that allows individuals to receive medical care and assistance in the comfort of their own homes. While many home healthcare professionals provide exceptional care, there are instances where malpractice can occur.
Understanding home healthcare malpractice
Home healthcare malpractice refers to instances where healthcare providers, including nurses, aides, therapists, or other professionals, fail to meet the standard of care expected in a home setting, resulting in harm to the patient. Common examples include:
- Medication errors
- Failure to monitor vital signs
- Negligent wound care
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Inadequate communication with the patient or family
- Physical or emotional abuse
Signs of home healthcare malpractice
Under Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.113, individuals are generally allowed one year to file a claim for medical malpractice claims. Although there are certain exceptions, this means it’s crucial that you act quickly as soon as you suspect that malpractice may be involved.
Here are some common signs:
- Unexplained decline in health: If a patient experiences an unexplained decline in health despite receiving home healthcare, it could be a red flag. This may include worsening symptoms, infections or unexpected complications.
- Medication errors: Incorrect dosages, administering the wrong medication or failure to provide necessary medications are serious signs of malpractice. Patients or their families should be vigilant about medication management.
- Lack of communication: Effective communication between healthcare providers, patients and family members is crucial. If there is a lack of communication or if important information is not conveyed, it may lead to compromised care.
- Failure to follow care plans: Home healthcare providers are expected to follow established care plans. If there are deviations from the plan or neglect in providing necessary care, it could be indicative of malpractice.
- Physical or emotional changes in the patient: Any observable changes in the patient’s physical or emotional well-being, such as signs of abuse or neglect, should be taken seriously. These changes warrant immediate investigation.
What to do next
If you suspect that a loved one is a victim of home healthcare malpractice, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny right away. The process of filing a malpractice claim can be complex, and time is of the essence. Document any details you’ve noticed regarding the situation, including photographs and video where possible. We’ll review your claim and let you know what kind of legal options are available to recover compensation.
Discuss your case with a Columbus medical malpractice lawyer
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can review your medical malpractice midwifery case. When you’re the victim of negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
