Nursing home negligence is when nursing home residents do not receive proper care, resulting in physical, emotional, and mental health issues—sometimes even death. Unfortunately, this commonly occurs in nursing homes in Tennessee and should not be ignored. If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect, you can take legal action to seek justice against the facility.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse often occurs when medical facilities are understaffed, overworked, and fatigued. Many nursing home staff also lack adequate education in established methods to provide proper healthcare services to meet the needs of their elderly patients. Different types of nursing home abuse include:
- Physical abuse
- Psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Gross negligence
- Resident-on-resident abuse
- Financial exploitation
Not all medical facilities offer the same level of care for elders. In some cases, poor care goes unnoticed because it can be hard to identify and is often not addressed until it becomes critical. Recognizing warning signs of the different types of abuse can protect elderly patients from experiencing further harm.
Learn More About Nursing Home Negligence
Physical Abuse
- Poor hygiene
- Bedsores
- Lack of nutrition
- Dehydration
- Injuries related to falling
Emotional Abuse
- Aggressive or violent behavior
- Lack of self-worth
- Substance abuse
- Suicidal thoughts
Sexual Abuse
- Inappropriate physical contact
- Bruises around the genitals
- STDs
Financial Abuse
- Changes to the power of attorney
- New bank accounts or lines of credit
- Unusual transactions on bank statements
Reporting a Nursing Home for Neglect in Tennessee
If you believe a loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect, you can file a complaint in the state of Tennessee. Any unethical condition that is cause for concern is deemed eligible for legal action. Anyone, including loved ones, employees, and coworkers, can report nursing home abuse if considered necessary. Formalizing a complaint will inform others of the nursing home neglect and ensure that the nursing home stops the abuse immediately.
To file a complaint in Tennessee, you should contact your local Division of Health. You can also fill out a Facility Complaint Form and mail it to your Division of Health. Once your complaint is received, a formal investigation is conducted. If proper steps are not taken, legal action is required. An attorney can help you file a complaint against one or more agencies or take your case to court. You will receive financial compensation for the injuries suffered by your loved one if your lawsuit is successful.
How to Determine If a Lawsuit Against a Nursing Home Will Succeed
Nursing Home Negligence Attorneys in Middle Tennessee
Nursing home negligence is unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Contact Flexer Law for a free consultation if your loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect or abuse. Our experienced Middle Tennessee attorneys will work diligently on your behalf to protect your loved ones and reach an appropriate settlement. In addition, we will work with you to determine if filing a lawsuit against a nursing home will be successful.
Flexer Law Office Locations
- Nashville, TN
- Murfreesboro, TN
- Columbia, TN