Nursing home residents often rely on staff for assistance with daily activities and medical care, making them particularly vulnerable to various forms of neglect. Unfortunately, when neglect occurs, it can lead to serious health complications, one of which is pneumonia. This respiratory infection can be especially dangerous for vulnerable seniors, highlighting the importance of attentive care in nursing homes.
If your loved one living in a nursing home is suffering from pneumonia and you believe neglect may be to blame, contact a lawyer to learn what legal steps may be available.
Defining Nursing Home Neglect
Nursing home neglect refers to the failure of caregivers to provide the necessary care and support for residents. Neglect can take many forms, such as lack of supervision, failure to assist with personal hygiene, neglecting medical needs, etc. When caregivers overlook the basic requirements of residents, it can set the stage for health problems like pneumonia to develop.
Understanding the Link Between Neglect and Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, causing symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. For nursing home residents, many of whom have weakened immune systems, mobility challenges, or chronic illnesses – the risk of developing pneumonia increases significantly in neglectful environments.
Neglect can lead to pneumonia in various ways. For example:
- Poor hygiene – Inadequate personal care and hygiene can result in the accumulation of germs and bacteria. If nursing home staff fail to assist residents with regular bathing and oral care, the risk of infections, including pneumonia, rises substantially.
- Insufficient mobility – Many nursing home residents are immobile or need assistance moving around. When staff neglects to help residents change positions regularly, they risk developing pneumonia due to fluid buildup in the lungs from prolonged inactivity.
- Poor nutrition – Malnutrition can rapidly weaken the immune system, making residents more susceptible to infections. If nursing homes fail to provide proper meals or feeding assistance, residents may not receive the nutrients necessary to fight off illnesses, including pneumonia.
Why is Pneumonia Dangerous for Nursing Home Residents?
Pneumonia can be life-threatening for nursing home residents because it can lead to complications such as respiratory failure, sepsis, and even death. Additionally, recovery from pneumonia can be prolonged, requiring extensive medical treatment and impacting a resident’s overall quality of life.
Contact Our Peoria County, IL Nursing Home Neglect Attorney
Nursing home neglect poses a very real risk for serious health complications like pneumonia. If you suspect your loved one’s pneumonia was caused by neglect, contact the Peoria, IL nursing home neglect lawyers with Nursing Home Injury Center. Call 309-524-6900 for a complimentary consultation.
