Nursing homes provide care to elderly and vulnerable individuals who require medical attention and assistance with daily activities. Unfortunately, some residents are victims of medical malpractice.
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s negligence or failure to meet the accepted standard of care results in harm to a patient. In nursing homes, this can involve doctors and nurses as well as other staff members who provide care.
Medication errors
One of the most frequent claims of medical malpractice in nursing homes is medication errors. Residents rely on staff to administer medications accurately and on time. Errors such as giving the wrong dosage, skipping doses or providing the wrong medication entirely can lead to serious health complications. Patients may experience adverse reactions, worsening of existing conditions or even death.
Failure to diagnose or treat
Nursing home residents often suffer from chronic illnesses or conditions requiring close monitoring. When staff fail to recognize symptoms of a serious condition, such as infections, heart problems or strokes, the delay in treatment can have devastating consequences. Similarly, inadequate or delayed care for pressure ulcers (also known as bedsores) can result in severe infections and long-term harm.
Neglect and health complications
Neglect in nursing homes can contribute to medical malpractice claims. While neglect may not always be intentional, it can result in preventable health complications. For instance, failure to assist residents with mobility needs can lead to falls and fractures. Ignoring residents’ nutritional or hydration needs can cause malnutrition or dehydration, which are particularly dangerous for seniors.
Infections and poor sanitation
Nursing home residents are often at a heightened risk for infections due to weakened immune systems. When staff fail to maintain proper hygiene standards, infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), sepsis or respiratory illnesses can spread throughout the home. Negligent sanitation practices, such as improperly cleaned medical equipment or unsanitary living conditions, often play a role in these cases.
Abuse and physical injuries
While not always a type of malpractice, abuse in nursing homes may overlap with medical negligence. Physical injuries caused by rough handling, improper use of restraints or failure to prevent falls are all grounds for legal action. In some cases, emotional or psychological abuse may also have a significant impact on a resident’s mental health, further complicating their care needs.
If your loved one has been harmed due to nursing home medical malpractice, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny to learn more about your options.
Discuss your case with a Columbus medical malpractice lawyer
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can review your medical malpractice 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.
