If your loved one has suffered as a result of a Washington, D.C. nursing home, you may have the grounds to file a negligence claim if the facility failed to provide adequate care to your loved one. Unfortunately, nursing home negligence generally entails inadequate supervision, improper medical care, and dangerous conditions. In many cases, nursing homes can face legal liability when they fail to meet the required standards of care, including proper supervision, medical treatment, and safe living conditions. Recognizing the warning signs can help you protect your loved one and fight for the legal justice you deserve.
What Is Nursing Home Negligence?
Many people struggle with putting their loved ones in nursing homes, but their worries are often alleviated by ensuring that their family members will be well-cared for. For this reason, it can be especially devastating when nursing home staff act negligently and cause harm to our loved ones. If you suspect that your family member is a victim of nursing home negligence, you will need the help of an experienced personal injury attorney.
How Negligence Occurs in Nursing Homes
- Failure to provide adequate supervision, leading to serious falls and injuries
- Improper medication administration or dosing errors
- Neglecting basic needs, like food, water, hygiene, and medication
- Understaffing ultimately leads to delayed or inadequate care
- Failure to maintain safe and sanitary conditions in the facility
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse or Negligence in Washington, D.C.
There are some common signs to look out for when it comes to nursing home abuse/negligence. Understanding the signs can help you protect your loved one
Warning Signs Families Should Watch For
- Malnutrition
- Sudden weight loss
- Verbal abuse or harassment
- Bedsores or pressure ulcers
- Broken bones
- Improper medication dosing
- Infections
- Reports of physical or sexual abuse
- Injuries from nursing home falls
- Dehydration
How to Report Nursing Home Negligence in Washington, D.C.
If you believe that your loved one is in imminent danger, you should call law enforcement immediately. You can also report the nursing home to the Department of Health once you speak with the nursing home facility’s management. You can also complete the Nursing Home Complaint Form or call the Nursing Home Complaint Hotline at 1-888-201-4563.
Steps to Report Abuse or Neglect
- Call 911 if your loved one is in immediate danger
- Inform management of the issue and request that a report be filed
- File a complaint with the D.C. Department of Health
- Document all communications and responses from the nursing home
- Take photos and videos of the unsafe or unsanitary conditions
In Washington, D.C., nursing homes are regulated in accordance with the Department of Health’s Health Regulation and Licensing Administration, which investigates complaints, conducts inspections, and enforces standards for long-term care facilities.
How Do You Prove Nursing Home Negligence in D.C.?
If your loved one has been a victim of nursing home negligence, you may be able to hold the nursing home responsible. But, in order to do so, you will have to provide proof of negligence.
Evidence That Can Support Your Claim
- Take photos and videos of the visible injuries your loved one has suffered, as well as the unsafe conditions on the premises
- Contact an attorney who can assist you in gathering evidence like surveillance footage, police reports, and inspection records
- Medical records linking your loved one’s injuries to the conditions present in the nursing home
- Witness statements from staff, visitors, and other residents
- Documented complaints, prior incidents on the premises, or prior violations
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Nursing Home Negligence Claims?
If you believe a nursing home is acting negligently, you will have to act fast. Taking legal action can ensure that you and your loved one receive the compensation you deserve for any physical, financial, and emotional burdens that occur as a result of the abuse. Additionally, it can help ensure that no other residents are put in danger. But you will have to file your claim in time. This is because of a deadline known as a statute of limitations. Generally, in Washington, D.C., the statute of limitations for a personal injury accident is three years from the date of the accident. Contact an attorney to avoid missing any important deadlines.
Contact Our Experienced Washington D.C. Firm
At Trombly & Singer, PLLC, our team understands how devastating it can be to discover that your loved one has suffered at the hands of those you entrusted with their care. That is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney at our firm. We are proud to represent those who have suffered at the hands of others in D.C. and fight for the compensation they deserve. When you need assistance, do not hesitate to contact us today to learn more.