With the population aging, many families choose to entrust a nursing home facility to care for a loved one as they grow older and are less able to care for themselves. Disturbingly, nursing home neglect is a serious issue that happens a lot more often than people would like to think. One potential indicator of neglect is the failure of a wound to heal. If your loved one is suffering from a wound that will not seem to heal, they may be experiencing some form of abuse or neglect within their facility. If this is the possible reality for your loved one, contact a lawyer in Illinois to get the help you need.
Wound Care and Neglect
Wound care is a critical aspect of healthcare in nursing homes, especially for residents with preexisting medical conditions or mobility problems. When a wound fails to heal, it may indicate inadequate attention or neglectful practices within the nursing home. Neglect can manifest itself in several ways, including:
- Inadequate assessment and treatment – Nursing home staff should regularly assess and monitor residents’ wounds to ensure proper healing. Failure to assess wounds promptly or provide appropriate treatment can lead to complications and delayed healing. If a wound is not healing as expected, it may suggest neglectful practices within the nursing home.
- Infection control – Proper infection control prevents wound infections and promotes healing. Poor hygiene, poor wound cleansing, or failure to administer antibiotics can lead to infections and hinder healing.
- Understaffed facilities – When an insufficient number of qualified staff members are available to provide proper wound care, residents may suffer from delayed healing or lousy treatment.
Taking Action to Address the Problem
If you believe nursing home neglect is to blame for a wound failing to heal, it is important to take appropriate action to protect your loved one’s well-being. Consider the following steps:
- Document and report the issue – Document any observations or concerns regarding the wound and its lack of improvement. Take photographs if appropriate and report your concerns to the administrator at the nursing home.
- Seek medical attention – Ensure your loved one receives proper medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional. They can assess the wound, provide appropriate treatment, and document any neglect-related concerns.
- Consult legal assistance – Remember, if you suspect nursing home neglect, grab a phone and call a lawyer. They will help you through the legal process.
Contact Our Peoria County, IL Nursing Home Neglect Attorneys Today
Please do not wait until it is too late. Contact the experienced Peoria, IL nursing home neglect lawyers with Nursing Home Injury Center. Call 309-524-6900 for a free consultation.
