Adult care facilities, commonly referred to as nursing homes, are overseen by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation. Adult care facilities are routinely inspected to ensure they are operating in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and violations can carry penalties that may include fines and suspension of licenses to operate.
Even residents at the most well-run nursing homes can be susceptible to serious injuries that may be the result of employee negligence or misconduct. In some cases, family members can be completely unaware of these types of situation, but victims may exhibit signs of problems in other cases and family members should immediately retain legal counsel in such instances.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse in North Carolina
It is important to keep in mind that abuse of nursing home patients is not always physical. In many cases, victims may be the victims of emotional abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, or just simple neglect.
Some of the warning signs that family members should recognize include:
- Poor hygiene;
- Pressure ulcers (bed sores);
- Refusal or lack of willingness to answer questions;
- Unexplained bruises; and
- Sudden changes to wills or bank accounts.
When you suspect that your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, you should be certain to document the wrongdoing and begin looking into possibly transferring him or her to another facility. You should then contact Nye Law Group as soon as possible.
Kinds of North Carolina Nursing Home Abuse Claims
Nursing homes can be held liable for many different types of negligent acts. Victims may be entitled to compensation for several different kinds of damages. Many cases involve a nursing home’s hiring practices.
For example, a facility could be liable if it hires a dangerous person with a criminal record who commits a violent act against a resident or steals from a resident. Other nursing homes that are seeking to reduce costs may also be held accountable if understaffing measures resulted in residents receiving inadequate care.
Similarly, fail to properly train new employees can also have catastrophic consequences for residents. Victims in some cases suffer serious or even fatal injuries as the result of prescription drug errors, often attributed to improperly trained employees.
When a loved one is the victim of continuing abuse, he or she may be reluctant to speak to you while a certain employee is present. If you notice this behavior or staff members ever refuse to allow you to see your loved one, you should immediately seek legal representation.
Find a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in North Carolina
Do you believe that your loved one has been the victim of negligence or abuse at a nursing home in North Carolina? You will want to contact The Nye Law Group as soon as possible.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys in Charlotte will a thorough investigation and work to hold all negligent parties accountable. You can call 855-636-9277 or contact us online to receive a free consultation that will let our firm review your case and help you understand all of your legal options.