Recent reports from a North Durham nursing home highlight alarming cases of abuse and neglect, underscoring the importance of holding long-term care facilities accountable for the treatment of their residents. The claims made by residents include instances of inadequate hygiene care, staff neglect, unsanitary living conditions, and even theft of personal belongings. These issues are not unique to one location. Nursing home abuse and neglect can happen anywhere and residents and their families must be aware of the legal protections in place to address such mistreatment.
In Maryland, nursing homes are legally required to meet certain standards of care. When they fail, residents and their families have the right to take legal action to protect their loved ones and hold the facility accountable for any harm caused.
What Are the Signs of Abuse and Neglect in Nursing Homes?
The troubling allegations from residents of the Durham facility include claims of staff sleeping on the job, inadequate medical care, and unsanitary living conditions, such as mold and poor hygiene. Unfortunately, these incidents are far too common in underfunded or poorly managed nursing homes.
In Maryland, nursing home residents are entitled to a safe environment, proper hygiene, adequate nutrition, and timely medical care. When facilities fail to provide these necessities, it may be a sign of neglect or abuse. Common signs of abuse or neglect include:
Unexplained weight loss. As noted in the Durham case, some residents were rapidly losing weight due to insufficient food and possible theft of their meals.
Unsanitary living conditions. Mold, dirty bedding, and unclean common areas are clear signs that a facility is not upholding its duty to provide a healthy living environment.
Untreated medical conditions. Residents going without necessary medications or care, as reported in the Durham case, can lead to serious health complications and is a violation of their rights.
Emotional abuse or rough treatment. Any form of mistreatment, whether physical or emotional by staff members must be addressed immediately to protect the well-being of the resident.
Legal Rights of Nursing Home Residents in Maryland
In Maryland, laws governing nursing home care are designed to protect the safety and dignity of residents. Facilities must meet federal and state standards, including the Nursing Home Reform Act, which mandates that residents receive proper care and respect. If a nursing home fails to comply with these regulations, residents and their families can file complaints and, if necessary, take legal action.
One of the key legal protections in Maryland is the right to pursue a claim for nursing home abuse or neglect. These claims can arise from various forms of mistreatment, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, medical neglect, and financial exploitation. In cases of severe neglect or abuse that result in injury or death, families may also have the option of filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
Maryland residents can report nursing home abuse and neglect to the Maryland Department of Health, which investigates and inspects facilities based on complaints. However, many families also choose to pursue civil claims to seek compensation for the harm caused and ensure that responsible parties are held accountable.
What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect
If you suspect that a loved one is being mistreated in a Maryland nursing home, it’s essential to act quickly. Document any signs of abuse or neglect, including unexplained injuries, poor living conditions, or sudden changes in behavior. You should also file a complaint with the appropriate authorities, such as the Maryland Department of Health, and consult with an attorney who handles nursing home abuse cases.
An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options and gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case. While state and federal regulators may conduct investigations, a civil claim ensures that your family can seek compensation and hold the facility accountable for any harm done.
In cases like the one from Durham, where multiple allegations of abuse and neglect have been made, it’s clear that waiting for internal reforms may not be enough to protect vulnerable residents. Legal action may be the most effective way to ensure that the safety and dignity of residents are prioritized moving forward.
Families in Maryland who are dealing with nursing home neglect or abuse should not hesitate to explore their legal options. Acting now can help protect your loved one and lead to lasting improvements in nursing home care throughout the state.
Contact the Dedicated Maryland Injury Lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen to Learn More
If you or a loved one was recently injured due to another’s negligence, it’s important you take a few minutes to learn about your rights and what you can do to hold the at-fault party accountable. At Lebowitz & Mzhen, we have decades of combined experience handling all types of personal injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice lawsuits on behalf of clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation today, give us a call at 800-654-1949. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.