Any actions or inactions that lead to a failure to meet a nursing home resident’s needs could be abuse. Nursing home negligence—which may be intentional or unintentional—may involve physical, emotional, or financial abuse. While some cases result from deliberate wrongdoing, many result from understaffing and inadequate training. Regardless, those responsible for the facility must handle any potential problems promptly.
If you suspect a problem, taking measures to prevent negligence in nursing homes and assisted living facilities is essential for the residents’ health and overall well-being. Schedule a meeting with a compassionate attorney to learn more about Toledo nursing home negligence safety and preventative measures.
Examples of Safety and Preventative Measures
Some examples of adequate safety and preventative measures to avoid negligence in nursing homes include the following:
- Initial and ongoing training for nurses, caregivers, and staff to ensure they recognize and respond promptly to risks
- Thoughtfully created care plans for every resident to address issues such as elopement and wandering behaviors
- Ensuring all environments, such as entryways and outdoor recreational areas, are secure
- Ongoing monitoring and assessment of all residents
- Clear, color-coded signs to help residents navigate the facility without confusion
- Systems for early detection and reporting of changes in residents’ health and medical conditions
- Regular structured activities for the residents for social engagement and relaxation
- Periodic safety protocol audits to review current preventative measures and make alterations as needed
Understanding the rules and regulations regarding negligence and nursing home safety and preventative measures is vital for anyone considering a skilled nursing facility in Toledo for their loved one.
The Right to a Safe and Clean Living Environment
Federal and state laws govern and closely monitor assisted living, nursing home, and memory care centers to ensure their residents receive the quality of care they need and deserve. Under the Ohio Revised Code § 3721.13, nursing homes and assisted living facilities must provide a safe living environment for all residents. This includes ensuring all equipment is in satisfactory working condition, walkways are safe and clear of debris, and the facility is adequately staffed with highly trained caregivers.
Nursing homes must also ensure that residents have clean, comfortable living spaces and receive daily personal care as needed. All Ohio nursing home residents have the right to:
- Ask questions and receive prompt responses
- Have clean living environments and clothing
- Request care from a medical provider of their choice
- Receive adequate, appropriate, and confidential medical care and treatment, with the ability to determine who can view their medical history and records
- Refuse non-emergency medical care or services
- Be comfortable and free of physical restraints and isolation
- Live in an environment free of verbal, physical, emotional, and mental abuse
A Toledo lawyer knowledgeable about nursing home negligence safety and preventative measures could investigate to determine if there are issues and help determine if legal action is necessary.
Speak to an Attorney About Nursing Home Negligence Safety and Preventative Measures in Toledo
Deciding to send your loved one to a long-term assisted living facility is often challenging, and knowing they are safe and happy is essential. Unfortunately, neglect and abuse are relatively common throughout the country. Therefore, it is vital to ensure the centers you consider are compliant with the regulations and provide all their residents with a safe and secure environment.
If you suspect abuse, seeking help from the local authorities is crucial. After reporting, promptly contacting a legal professional may help you protect your loved one and all of the other residents at that facility.
Call us at Zoll & Kranz, LLC today to speak with a seasoned lawyer about Toledo nursing home negligence safety and preventative measures.