Given the rash of Maryland nursing home abuse and neglect allegations that have been made over the past decade, it is no surprise that families of nursing home residents are concerned about their loved ones’ safety. In fact, the growing concern has led a number of states – including Maryland – to allow for the families of residents to place hidden video cameras in their loved ones’ rooms. Of course, in order to do so, the family member must obtain their loved one’s permission.
The use of video recording in nursing homes has greatly increased transparency in an industry that is known for denying liability in the face of all kinds of allegations. In fact, there have been substantiated cases of nursing home abuse in which the employee initially denies the abuse occurred, only to be confronted with a video that shows otherwise.
A recent news article discusses the video evidence captured by the family of one man who died from complications related to stage three pressure ulcers that he developed while in a nursing home. According to the article, a concerned daughter placed a hidden camera in her father’s room. The video showed a nursing attendant forcefully trying to get the elderly man off the bed and pushing him into a wheelchair. Later, the video shows her dousing the man in mouthwash, which contains alcohol and may contribute to pressure ulcers.
Several states have seen some progress in terms of passing permissive statutes that would allow for families of nursing home residents to install video recording technology; however, at the moment, only a few states allow for the placement of hidden cameras in nursing homes, including Maryland, Oklahoma, Texas, Washington, and New Mexico. Even in these states, moreover, the use of hidden cameras is heavily regulated. For example, a camera can record video but is not permitted to record audio, due to the privacy interests of the nursing home employees.
The nursing home industry, as a whole, has been steadfast in its position against the use of hidden cameras. Those against the use of cameras claim that they will not prevent nursing home abuse or neglect but only document it. However, those in favor argue that the fear of being recorded may make nursing home employees more careful in the way they treat residents.
Is Your Loved One at Risk?
If you have a loved one in a Maryland nursing home, and you believe that they may be at risk of abuse or neglect, contact a dedicated Maryland nursing home attorney to discuss the options you may have. The dedicated team of Maryland nursing home attorneys at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers has extensive experience handling nursing home abuse and neglect cases, and we have developed a thorough understanding of the laws governing these claims. Call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation with an attorney to discuss your case today.
More Blog Posts:
Court Upholds Jury’s Decision to Award Punitive Damages in Nursing Home Case, Maryland Nursing Home Lawyer Blog, published October 13, 2017.
Family Sues Nursing Home for Inadequate Care After Woman’s Death, Maryland Nursing Home Lawyer Blog, published November 14, 2017.