ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

VERBAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES Verbal Abuse in Nursing Homes. One of the most common types of emotional abuse suffered by the elderly is verbal abuse. Verbal abuse often occurs in nursing homes, and at least one in ten nursing home residents have experienced neglect and abuse. REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG

STAGE FOUR BEDSORES

Stage 4 Bedsores are initially standard skin lesions caused by a lack of mobility, which if patients are left immobile or highly sedentary over a period of days or longer, progressively worsening bedsore infections and wounds are likely to develop. In cases of nursing home neglect, this is more than evident, as stage four (4) bedsores are the NURSING HOME EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND CHECKS Nursing homes use background checks in order to avoid hiring individuals who have histories of committing crimes and abuse. Many of the elderly in nursing homes are dependent on staff and vulnerable to abuse, so it is the responsibility of the nursing home to make sure their staff does not take advantage of the residents.

BEDSORE DEATHS

FEMUR BREAKS

Femur Break in a Nursing Home Resident. A femur break is a serious break at any age but it can be deadly to seniors that are 65 years and older. The femur is the longest bone in the body. Femur breaks/fractures are most likely at the hip but in some cases can be at the lower extremities. ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

VERBAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES Verbal Abuse in Nursing Homes. One of the most common types of emotional abuse suffered by the elderly is verbal abuse. Verbal abuse often occurs in nursing homes, and at least one in ten nursing home residents have experienced neglect and abuse. REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG

STAGE FOUR BEDSORES

Stage 4 Bedsores are initially standard skin lesions caused by a lack of mobility, which if patients are left immobile or highly sedentary over a period of days or longer, progressively worsening bedsore infections and wounds are likely to develop. In cases of nursing home neglect, this is more than evident, as stage four (4) bedsores are the NURSING HOME EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND CHECKS Nursing homes use background checks in order to avoid hiring individuals who have histories of committing crimes and abuse. Many of the elderly in nursing homes are dependent on staff and vulnerable to abuse, so it is the responsibility of the nursing home to make sure their staff does not take advantage of the residents.

BEDSORE DEATHS

FEMUR BREAKS

Femur Break in a Nursing Home Resident. A femur break is a serious break at any age but it can be deadly to seniors that are 65 years and older. The femur is the longest bone in the body. Femur breaks/fractures are most likely at the hip but in some cases can be at the lower extremities.

NURSING HOME ABUSE

Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

VERBAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES Verbal Abuse in Nursing Homes. One of the most common types of emotional abuse suffered by the elderly is verbal abuse. Verbal abuse often occurs in nursing homes, and at least one in ten nursing home residents have experienced neglect and abuse. EFFECTS OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE When an elderly person suddenly has a black eye or other physical injury, the abuse is obvious and impossible to ignore. Recognizing the effects of emotional abuse is much more difficult. Because of that, the emotional abuse of elderly patients is less understood and not measured as accurately as other types of elder abuse. Recognizing

ELDER SEXUAL ABUSE

Important Facts about Elder Sexual Abuse: 70% of reported abuse occurs in nursing homes. Only 30% of victims of elder sexual abuse report it to authorities. The abuser is the primary caregiver 81% of the time. Elderly women are six times more likely than men to be sexually

abused.

CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES The Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes. Influenza was the cause of 1 in 6 deaths among the elderly in the year 1997. From that group, those who were 65 years or older accounted for 90% of these deaths. When there is a spread of the influenza virus in a nursing home, roughly 20 to 30% of the residents get hit and, during these outbreaks, as MEDICATION ERROR CAUSES IN NURSING HOMES Medication errors are mistakes made by physicians, nurses, and caregivers when they are administering a patient’s medication. These can include incorrect dosage, incorrect method of administration, and even providing the incorrect medication. Medication errors can also be made by patients and their family members if they are administering the medication themselves. Medication errors are a POOR HYGIENE IN NURSING HOMES Serious issues can develop when nursing homes do not keep up with their sanitation needs. When germs and bacteria spread, vulnerable nursing home residents can be affected in a negative way. This is especially important because these residents are most likely to have medical conditions that, along with poor hygiene, can wreck havoc on

their

WRONG MEDICATION GIVEN The elderly are often on multiple medications simultaneously, so there is an increased risk of taking the wrong medication. Taking the wrong medication can lead to harmful side effects, organ failure, and even death. It is very important that the elderly, their caregivers, and their physicians do everything they can to prevent the ingestion of MEDICATION ERRORS IN NURSING HOMES Patients may suffer lasting damage to their organs, requiring expensive treatment and new medications. Similarly, these adverse drug effects cost nursing homes an estimated $7.6 billion dollars. It is in the interest of everyone to reduce the incidence and severity of medication errors by paying greater attention to the prescribing and

monitoring.

BROKEN BACK

When many people hear the words “broken back”, they assume that this is immediately a fatal condition. However, that isn’t always the case. In fact, many people have broken backs and continue living with the problem. However, this doesn’t mean broken backs should be taken lightly. They can lead to severe pain, ligament damage,

dislocation

ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Over 3.2 million adults living in nursing homes and other long term care facilities in the U.S. As many as 40 percent of all adults will enter a nursing home at some point during their lives and as the U.S. population ages, the number of nursing home residents is expected to

grow. Many of these

TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES Nursing Home Infections Nursing home facilities are breeding grounds for infectious diseases caused by lack of hygiene, which causes germs to spread and affect patients. This is often due to poor management. It is estimated that 380,000 patients may pass away each year due to infections contracted in these facilities. That said, infections

represent a

NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING One underlying cause of elder abuse and neglect that affects nursing homes all across the country is the issue of understaffing. When nursing facilities do not have enough staff to give each patient adequate attention, it leads to mistakes and neglect. At the same time, when staff is extremely overworked and stressed, there is a

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG INJURY DUE TO RESTRAINTS Along with over-medicating patients to keep them calm, one of the stereotypes and fears about American nursing homes is that they often use restraints to control elderly patients. Although this is still a problem, and the amount of restraints should be reduced, the good news

is

FEMUR BREAKS

Femur Break in a Nursing Home Resident A femur break is a serious break at any age but it can be deadly to seniors that are 65 years and older. The femur is the longest bone in the body. Femur breaks/fractures are most likely at the hip but in some cases can be

at the

STAGE FOUR BEDSORES

Pressure ulcers or bedsores at any stage are a clear sign of an immediate need to alter the care regimen, if not location of a patient entirely depending on the severity and extent of the bedsore injuries. In brief, bodily pressure from lying in the same position for an extended amount of time results in

BEDSORE DEATHS

ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Over 3.2 million adults living in nursing homes and other long term care facilities in the U.S. As many as 40 percent of all adults will enter a nursing home at some point during their lives and as the U.S. population ages, the number of nursing home residents is expected to

grow. Many of these

TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES Nursing Home Infections Nursing home facilities are breeding grounds for infectious diseases caused by lack of hygiene, which causes germs to spread and affect patients. This is often due to poor management. It is estimated that 380,000 patients may pass away each year due to infections contracted in these facilities. That said, infections

represent a

NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING One underlying cause of elder abuse and neglect that affects nursing homes all across the country is the issue of understaffing. When nursing facilities do not have enough staff to give each patient adequate attention, it leads to mistakes and neglect. At the same time, when staff is extremely overworked and stressed, there is a

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG INJURY DUE TO RESTRAINTS Along with over-medicating patients to keep them calm, one of the stereotypes and fears about American nursing homes is that they often use restraints to control elderly patients. Although this is still a problem, and the amount of restraints should be reduced, the good news

is

FEMUR BREAKS

Femur Break in a Nursing Home Resident A femur break is a serious break at any age but it can be deadly to seniors that are 65 years and older. The femur is the longest bone in the body. Femur breaks/fractures are most likely at the hip but in some cases can be

at the

STAGE FOUR BEDSORES

Pressure ulcers or bedsores at any stage are a clear sign of an immediate need to alter the care regimen, if not location of a patient entirely depending on the severity and extent of the bedsore injuries. In brief, bodily pressure from lying in the same position for an extended amount of time results in

BEDSORE DEATHS

NURSING HOME ABUSE

Nursing Home Abuse Guide. Over 3.2 million adults living in nursing homes and other long term care facilities in the U.S. As many as 40 percent of all adults will enter a nursing home at some point during their lives and as the U.S. population ages, the number of nursing home residents is expected to grow. NURSING HOME ABUSE STATISTICS The statistics reflecting incidents of abuse involving elderly residents in nursing homes and care facilities are both staggering and disheartening. At the broadest level, more than two (2) million cases of elder abuse are reported every year, and almost one (1) out of every ten (10) elderly individuals will experience some form of elder

abuse.

STAFF NEGLECT -NURSING HOME ABUSE As more senior citizens take up residence in elder care facilities and nursing homes, the incidents of elder abuse are continuing to increase. Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to physical and psychological mistreatment, financial fraud, and sexual abuse from all levels of caregivers who provide services for them. But the national

trend appears to be

VERBAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES One of the most common types of emotional abuse suffered by the elderly is verbal abuse. Verbal abuse often occurs in nursing homes, and at least one in ten nursing home residents have experienced neglect and abuse. When an elderly person first moves to a nursing POOR HYGIENE IN NURSING HOMES Serious issues can develop when nursing homes do not keep up with their sanitation needs. When germs and bacteria spread, vulnerable nursing home residents can be affected in a negative way. This is especially important because these residents are most likely to have medical conditions that, along with poor hygiene, can wreck havoc on

their

NURSING HOME EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND CHECKS Nursing homes use background checks in order to avoid hiring individuals who have histories of committing crimes and abuse. Many of the elderly in nursing homes are dependent on staff and vulnerable to abuse, so it is the responsibility of the nursing home to make sure their staff does not take advantage of the residents. WRONG MEDICATION GIVEN The elderly are often on multiple medications simultaneously, so there is an increased risk of taking the wrong medication. Taking the wrong medication can lead to harmful side effects, organ failure, and even death. It is very important that the elderly, their caregivers, and their physicians do everything they can to prevent the ingestion of DEHYDRATION IN ELDERLY NURSING HOME PATIENTS One of the most common ailments elderly individuals experience is dehydration. This condition, which entails the loss of fluids in the body, terribly disrupts normal bodily functions. Water needs to be constantly replenished in the body in order for it to be able to work at full capacity. If more fluid is being released through the cells NURSING HOME ABUSE IN NORTH CAROLINA Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in North Carolina N.C. has over 400 nursing homes with over 30,000 residents. About 18% of those have an overall 5-star rating. Approximately one-third of the skilled nursing home care facilities have received more than 3 complaints annually. With the National average of 1 in every 10 people over the NURSING HOME ABUSE IN WASHINGTON- ELDER ABUSE LAWS Washington Nursing Home Laws and Regulations Every state in the US has worked on bolstering federal nursing home abuse laws in order to combat the problem that has been leading to abuse, neglect, and exploitation for years. The State of Washington has actually put into place several initiatives and programs designed to protect elderly

individuals.

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES One common form of emotional abuse inflicted on the elderly is psychological abuse. Psychological abuse can be verbal or nonverbal and consists of any action that causes the patient emotional harm or anguish. Though a lot of the psychological abuse in nursing homes is inflicted by the nursing home staff, other residents are also capable NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

EFFECTS OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE When an elderly person suddenly has a black eye or other physical injury, the abuse is obvious and impossible to ignore. Recognizing the effects of emotional abuse is much more difficult. Because of that, the emotional abuse of elderly patients is less understood and not measured as accurately as other types of elder abuse. Recognizing SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE AND REPORTING PROCEDURES Signs of physical abuse include broken bones, bruises, cuts, open wounds, bedsores, and scars. Psychological abuse: When a caregiver is willingly causing psychological stress or intimidation to an elderly citizen, it is considered psychological abuse. The caregiver may resort to insults, threats, harassment, and similar behavior to

emotionally

CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES The Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes. Influenza was the cause of 1 in 6 deaths among the elderly in the year 1997. From that group, those who were 65 years or older accounted for 90% of these deaths. When there is a spread of the influenza virus in a nursing home, roughly 20 to 30% of the residents get hit and, during these outbreaks, as MEDICATION ERROR CAUSES IN NURSING HOMES WRONG MEDICATION GIVEN The elderly are often on multiple medications simultaneously, so there is an increased risk of taking the wrong medication. Taking the wrong medication can lead to harmful side effects, organ failure, and even death. It is very important that the elderly, their caregivers, and their physicians do everything they can to prevent the ingestion of

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES One common form of emotional abuse inflicted on the elderly is psychological abuse. Psychological abuse can be verbal or nonverbal and consists of any action that causes the patient emotional harm or anguish. Though a lot of the psychological abuse in nursing homes is inflicted by the nursing home staff, other residents are also capable NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

EFFECTS OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE When an elderly person suddenly has a black eye or other physical injury, the abuse is obvious and impossible to ignore. Recognizing the effects of emotional abuse is much more difficult. Because of that, the emotional abuse of elderly patients is less understood and not measured as accurately as other types of elder abuse. Recognizing SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE AND REPORTING PROCEDURES Signs of physical abuse include broken bones, bruises, cuts, open wounds, bedsores, and scars. Psychological abuse: When a caregiver is willingly causing psychological stress or intimidation to an elderly citizen, it is considered psychological abuse. The caregiver may resort to insults, threats, harassment, and similar behavior to

emotionally

CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES The Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes. Influenza was the cause of 1 in 6 deaths among the elderly in the year 1997. From that group, those who were 65 years or older accounted for 90% of these deaths. When there is a spread of the influenza virus in a nursing home, roughly 20 to 30% of the residents get hit and, during these outbreaks, as MEDICATION ERROR CAUSES IN NURSING HOMES WRONG MEDICATION GIVEN The elderly are often on multiple medications simultaneously, so there is an increased risk of taking the wrong medication. Taking the wrong medication can lead to harmful side effects, organ failure, and even death. It is very important that the elderly, their caregivers, and their physicians do everything they can to prevent the ingestion of ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES One common form of emotional abuse inflicted on the elderly is psychological abuse. Psychological abuse can be verbal or nonverbal and consists of any action that causes the patient emotional harm or anguish. Though a lot of the psychological abuse in nursing homes is inflicted by the nursing home staff, other residents are also capable SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE AND REPORTING PROCEDURES Signs of physical abuse include broken bones, bruises, cuts, open wounds, bedsores, and scars. Psychological abuse: When a caregiver is willingly causing psychological stress or intimidation to an elderly citizen, it is considered psychological abuse. The caregiver may resort to insults, threats, harassment, and similar behavior to

emotionally

VERBAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES Verbal Abuse in Nursing Homes. One of the most common types of emotional abuse suffered by the elderly is verbal abuse. Verbal abuse often occurs in nursing homes, and at least one in ten nursing home residents have experienced neglect and abuse. CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES The Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes. Influenza was the cause of 1 in 6 deaths among the elderly in the year 1997. From that group, those who were 65 years or older accounted for 90% of these deaths. When there is a spread of the influenza virus in a nursing home, roughly 20 to 30% of the residents get hit and, during these outbreaks, as MEDICATION ERROR CAUSES IN NURSING HOMES Medication errors are mistakes made by physicians, nurses, and caregivers when they are administering a patient’s medication. These can include incorrect dosage, incorrect method of administration, and even providing the incorrect medication. Medication errors can also be made by patients and their family members if they are administering the medication themselves. Medication errors are a

STAGE FOUR BEDSORES

Stage 4 Bedsores are initially standard skin lesions caused by a lack of mobility, which if patients are left immobile or highly sedentary over a period of days or longer, progressively worsening bedsore infections and wounds are likely to develop. In cases of nursing home neglect, this is more than evident, as stage four (4) bedsores are the TREATMENT FOR BEDSORES Using foam and gel pads on the bed can help as well. Ensure the patient has a proper diet and proper hydration as well. A nutritious diet can help to boost immunity levels. Staying hydrated is important for the health of the skin. Remove excess moisture from the POOR HYGIENE IN NURSING HOMES Serious issues can develop when nursing homes do not keep up with their sanitation needs. When germs and bacteria spread, vulnerable nursing home residents can be affected in a negative way. This is especially important because these residents are most likely to have medical conditions that, along with poor hygiene, can wreck havoc on

their

INJURY DUE TO RESTRAINTS Injury Due to Restraints. Along with over-medicating patients to keep them calm, one of the stereotypes and fears about American nursing homes is that they often use restraints to control elderly patients. Although this is still a problem, and the amount of restraints should be reduced, the good news is that the use of restraints has declined ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES The Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes. Influenza was the cause of 1 in 6 deaths among the elderly in the year 1997. From that group, those who were 65 years or older accounted for 90% of these deaths. When there is a spread of the influenza virus in a nursing home, roughly 20 to 30% of the residents get hit and, during these outbreaks, as

STAGE FOUR BEDSORES

Stage 4 Bedsores are initially standard skin lesions caused by a lack of mobility, which if patients are left immobile or highly sedentary over a period of days or longer, progressively worsening bedsore infections and wounds are likely to develop. In cases of nursing home neglect, this is more than evident, as stage four (4) bedsores are the MEDICATION ERRORS IN NURSING HOMES INJURY DUE TO RESTRAINTS Injury Due to Restraints. Along with over-medicating patients to keep them calm, one of the stereotypes and fears about American nursing homes is that they often use restraints to control elderly patients. Although this is still a problem, and the amount of restraints should be reduced, the good news is that the use of restraints has declined

FEMUR BREAKS

Femur Break in a Nursing Home Resident. A femur break is a serious break at any age but it can be deadly to seniors that are 65 years and older. The femur is the longest bone in the body. Femur breaks/fractures are most likely at the hip but in some cases can be at the lower extremities. ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES The Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes. Influenza was the cause of 1 in 6 deaths among the elderly in the year 1997. From that group, those who were 65 years or older accounted for 90% of these deaths. When there is a spread of the influenza virus in a nursing home, roughly 20 to 30% of the residents get hit and, during these outbreaks, as

STAGE FOUR BEDSORES

Stage 4 Bedsores are initially standard skin lesions caused by a lack of mobility, which if patients are left immobile or highly sedentary over a period of days or longer, progressively worsening bedsore infections and wounds are likely to develop. In cases of nursing home neglect, this is more than evident, as stage four (4) bedsores are the MEDICATION ERRORS IN NURSING HOMES INJURY DUE TO RESTRAINTS Injury Due to Restraints. Along with over-medicating patients to keep them calm, one of the stereotypes and fears about American nursing homes is that they often use restraints to control elderly patients. Although this is still a problem, and the amount of restraints should be reduced, the good news is that the use of restraints has declined

FEMUR BREAKS

Femur Break in a Nursing Home Resident. A femur break is a serious break at any age but it can be deadly to seniors that are 65 years and older. The femur is the longest bone in the body. Femur breaks/fractures are most likely at the hip but in some cases can be at the lower extremities. ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

NURSING HOME ABUSE STATISTICS The statistics reflecting incidents of abuse involving elderly residents in nursing homes and care facilities are both staggering and disheartening. At the broadest level, more than two (2) million cases of elder abuse are reported every year, and almost one (1) out of every ten (10) elderly individuals will experience some form of elder

abuse.

WOMEN AND ELDER ABUSE There are a few reasons why more women are victims of elder abuse than men. One of the simple reasons is that women live longer than men. The older an elderly person is the greater risk they have for elder abuse. Because more women are senior citizens than men, women overall make up a greater portion of elder abuse victims. STAFF NEGLECT -NURSING HOME ABUSE Staff Neglect or Elder Abuse Is Growing in Prominence in Nursing Homes Across the Country. One of the fastest growing forms of elder abuse is staff neglect, in which the personnel and employees of nursing homes and care facilities fail to provide for the basic required needs of each individual patient, with the failure to do so being considered SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE AND REPORTING PROCEDURES Signs of physical abuse include broken bones, bruises, cuts, open wounds, bedsores, and scars. Psychological abuse: When a caregiver is willingly causing psychological stress or intimidation to an elderly citizen, it is considered psychological abuse. The caregiver may resort to insults, threats, harassment, and similar behavior to

emotionally

WRONG MEDICATION GIVEN The elderly are often on multiple medications simultaneously, so there is an increased risk of taking the wrong medication. Taking the wrong medication can lead to harmful side effects, organ failure, and even death. It is very important that the elderly, their caregivers, and their physicians do everything they can to prevent the ingestion of POOR HYGIENE IN NURSING HOMES Serious issues can develop when nursing homes do not keep up with their sanitation needs. When germs and bacteria spread, vulnerable nursing home residents can be affected in a negative way. This is especially important because these residents are most likely to have medical conditions that, along with poor hygiene, can wreck havoc on

their

NURSING HOME EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND CHECKS Nursing homes use background checks in order to avoid hiring individuals who have histories of committing crimes and abuse. Many of the elderly in nursing homes are dependent on staff and vulnerable to abuse, so it is the responsibility of the nursing home to make sure their staff does not take advantage of the residents.

BEDSORE DEATHS

Bedsore Deaths The Frightening Prevalence of Bedsore Death Cases. Bedsore death cases are frighteningly common in nursing homes. Among residents, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that roughly 1 out of 10 patients suffers from bedsores at any point in time. MALNUTRITION ISSUES IN NURSING HOMES Malnourishment and lack of proper nutrition are prevalent issues in nursing homes. Elderly individuals need all their vitamins and minerals every single day to meet their bodies’ demands. If the diet that the nursing home provides its residents does not contain the proper nutrients, malnutrition is going to become an issue among the population. Unfortunately, WOMEN AND ELDER ABUSE There are a few reasons why more women are victims of elder abuse than men. One of the simple reasons is that women live longer than men. The older an elderly person is the greater risk they have for elder abuse. Because more women are senior citizens than men, women overall make up a greater portion of elder abuse victims. REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage EFFECTS OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE When an elderly person suddenly has a black eye or other physical injury, the abuse is obvious and impossible to ignore. Recognizing the effects of emotional abuse is much more difficult. Because of that, the emotional abuse of elderly patients is less understood and not measured as accurately as other types of elder abuse. Recognizing SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE AND REPORTING PROCEDURES Signs of physical abuse include broken bones, bruises, cuts, open wounds, bedsores, and scars. Psychological abuse: When a caregiver is willingly causing psychological stress or intimidation to an elderly citizen, it is considered psychological abuse. The caregiver may resort to insults, threats, harassment, and similar behavior to

emotionally

NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

INJURY DUE TO RESTRAINTS Injury Due to Restraints. Along with over-medicating patients to keep them calm, one of the stereotypes and fears about American nursing homes is that they often use restraints to control elderly patients. Although this is still a problem, and the amount of restraints should be reduced, the good news is that the use of restraints has declined MALNUTRITION ISSUES IN NURSING HOMES Malnourishment and lack of proper nutrition are prevalent issues in nursing homes. Elderly individuals need all their vitamins and minerals every single day to meet their bodies’ demands. If the diet that the nursing home provides its residents does not contain the proper nutrients, malnutrition is going to become an issue among the population. Unfortunately, MEDICATION ERRORS IN NURSING HOMES WOMEN AND ELDER ABUSE There are a few reasons why more women are victims of elder abuse than men. One of the simple reasons is that women live longer than men. The older an elderly person is the greater risk they have for elder abuse. Because more women are senior citizens than men, women overall make up a greater portion of elder abuse victims. REMOVING A PATIENT FROM A NURSING HOMESEE MORE ON NURSINGHOMEABUSEGUIDE.ORG TYPES OF NURSING HOME EMPLOYEES A well-staffed nursing home has many different types of employees. Many of these employees have undergone specialized training for their roles and responsibilities. While there are some employees such as personal care attendants and registered nurses who are often seen in the hallways and walking into rooms, there are also specialized support staff that are

BEDSORE STATISTICS

Bedsores disproportionately affect older patient populations, especially those exhibiting some degree of immobility or other disability that impedes regular movement. In these cases, the patient sustains a pressure sore from their body weight, typically on a pressure point of contact. Though ranging in severity along a spectrum identified by practitioners as stages one through stage EFFECTS OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE When an elderly person suddenly has a black eye or other physical injury, the abuse is obvious and impossible to ignore. Recognizing the effects of emotional abuse is much more difficult. Because of that, the emotional abuse of elderly patients is less understood and not measured as accurately as other types of elder abuse. Recognizing SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE AND REPORTING PROCEDURES Signs of physical abuse include broken bones, bruises, cuts, open wounds, bedsores, and scars. Psychological abuse: When a caregiver is willingly causing psychological stress or intimidation to an elderly citizen, it is considered psychological abuse. The caregiver may resort to insults, threats, harassment, and similar behavior to

emotionally

NURSING HOME UNDERSTAFFING Understaffing is a serious issue that has plagued nursing homes for decades, and more than 90% of nursing homes are currently understaffed. Studies have proven that residents who live in understaffed nursing homes are at a greater risk of malnutrition,

weight loss,

INJURY DUE TO RESTRAINTS Injury Due to Restraints. Along with over-medicating patients to keep them calm, one of the stereotypes and fears about American nursing homes is that they often use restraints to control elderly patients. Although this is still a problem, and the amount of restraints should be reduced, the good news is that the use of restraints has declined MALNUTRITION ISSUES IN NURSING HOMES Malnourishment and lack of proper nutrition are prevalent issues in nursing homes. Elderly individuals need all their vitamins and minerals every single day to meet their bodies’ demands. If the diet that the nursing home provides its residents does not contain the proper nutrients, malnutrition is going to become an issue among the population. Unfortunately, MEDICATION ERRORS IN NURSING HOMES ELDER ABUSE, NEGLECT & MORE Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every year. Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be

more

SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE AND REPORTING PROCEDURES Signs of physical abuse include broken bones, bruises, cuts, open wounds, bedsores, and scars. Psychological abuse: When a caregiver is willingly causing psychological stress or intimidation to an elderly citizen, it is considered psychological abuse. The caregiver may resort to insults, threats, harassment, and similar behavior to

emotionally

CAREGIVER ABUSE

One of the leading causes of elder abuse is caregiver stress and other problems that prevent caregivers from properly caring for the elderly. Factors such as substance abuse or financial problems can lead to caregiver abuse of the elderly in both residential and institutional care settings. There is no excuse for elder abuse, but it must be

understood

ELDER SEXUAL ABUSE

Important Facts about Elder Sexual Abuse: 70% of reported abuse occurs in nursing homes. Only 30% of victims of elder sexual abuse report it to authorities. The abuser is the primary caregiver 81% of the time. Elderly women are six times more likely than men to be sexually

abused.

VERBAL ABUSE IN NURSING HOMES Verbal Abuse in Nursing Homes. One of the most common types of emotional abuse suffered by the elderly is verbal abuse. Verbal abuse often occurs in nursing homes, and at least one in ten nursing home residents have experienced neglect and abuse. CONTAMINATION IN NURSING HOMES The Spread of Influenza in Nursing Homes. Influenza was the cause of 1 in 6 deaths among the elderly in the year 1997. From that group, those who were 65 years or older accounted for 90% of these deaths. When there is a spread of the influenza virus in a nursing home, roughly 20 to 30% of the residents get hit and, during these outbreaks, as POOR HYGIENE IN NURSING HOMES Serious issues can develop when nursing homes do not keep up with their sanitation needs. When germs and bacteria spread, vulnerable nursing home residents can be affected in a negative way. This is especially important because these residents are most likely to have medical conditions that, along with poor hygiene, can wreck havoc on

their

MALNUTRITION ISSUES IN NURSING HOMES Malnourishment and lack of proper nutrition are prevalent issues in nursing homes. Elderly individuals need all their vitamins and minerals every single day to meet their bodies’ demands. If the diet that the nursing home provides its residents does not contain the proper nutrients, malnutrition is going to become an issue among the population. Unfortunately, MEDICATION ERROR CAUSES IN NURSING HOMES Medication errors are mistakes made by physicians, nurses, and caregivers when they are administering a patient’s medication. These can include incorrect dosage, incorrect method of administration, and even providing the incorrect medication. Medication errors can also be made by patients and their family members if they are administering the medication themselves. Medication errors are a NURSING HOME EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND CHECKS Nursing homes use background checks in order to avoid hiring individuals who have histories of committing crimes and abuse. Many of the elderly in nursing homes are dependent on staff and vulnerable to abuse, so it is the responsibility of the nursing home to make sure their staff does not take advantage of the residents. Take Our Survey, Get Answers

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NURSING HOME ABUSE GUIDE Over 3.2 million adults living in nursing homes and other long term care facilities in the U.S. As many as 40 percent of all adults will enter a nursing home at some point during their lives and as the U.S. population ages, the number of nursing home residents is expected to grow. Many of these elders are well-cared for but many may be the

victims of abuse.

Elder abuse, particularly when it involves a patient in a residential care facility, can be difficult to detect and for every reported case of abuse, more than five cases may go unreported. Nursing home abuse is a serious concern and seniors who have been abused have a 300 percent greater chance of death in the 3 years following the abuse than those who aren’t abused. Up to 1 in 6 nursing home residents may be the victim of abuse or neglect every

year.

Though many residents are well-cared for, abuse continues to be more prevalent than most people wish to believe and over three-fourths of the cases of nursing home abuse are perpetrated by caregivers. Take Our Survey, Get Answers A congressional report showed that an examination of nursing home records conducted over a two-year period showed that nearly 1 in 3 nursing homes were cited for violations that had the potential to cause harm and almost 10 percent of all nursing homes have violations that caused actual harm, serious injury or placed them in jeopardy of

death.

A survey of nursing home residents showed that up to 44 percent of nursing home residents reported that they had been abused at some time in residency and nearly all of those surveyed (95%) had seen another

resident neglected.

A study conducted by the U.S. General Accountability Office revealed that state regulators are likely to miss signs of abuse. The GAO found that 70 percent of state surveys missed significant deficiencies and 15 percent missed notice of actual harm or immediate jeopardy of a nursing home resident. Due to reports like these, legislatures in all 50 states have passed anti-elder-abuse laws but nursing home abuse continues to occur. Call FREE Guide Information Get help today NURSING HOME ABUSE CAN INVOLVE: Physical Abuse is a condition or event that causes physical harm. Physical abuse may be intentional such as hitting or pinching or it may be due to neglect including overuse of restraints and lack of

physical care.

Sexual Abuse is unwanted sexual attention or exploitation. This includes sexual attention given to a patient who is unable to express his or her wishes or is cognitively compromised such as the patient

with dementia.

Psychological Abuse is not easily identified but can include yelling, criticizing, humiliating or otherwise shaming the patient. Patients who are experiencing psychological abuse may exhibit behavioral

changes.

Financial Exploitation occurs a caregiver takes advantage of access to a patients financial matters, steals or otherwise compromises the patient’s financial status. This could include direct theft, theft from banking accounts or applying for credit in the patient’s name. Neglect is often unintentional and a result of inadequate staffing. Neglect occurs when a patient’s needs are not taken care of such as personal hygiene care or when the patient is not provided food, clothing or water. Neglect can contribute to a number of medical conditions such as bed sores, skin infections, malnutrition and

dehydration.

Resident to Resident Abuse occurs when one resident is allowed to abuse another. Resident to resident abuse may be physical, sexual or psychological. Nursing home patients should be protected from other

residents.

SIGNS OF NURSING HOME ABUSE MAY INCLUDE: * Broken bones or fractures * Bruising, cuts or welts

* Bed sores

* Frequent infections * Signs of Dehydration * Mood swings and emotional outbursts * Reclusiveness or refusal to speak * Refusal to eat or take medications * Unexplained weight loss * Poor physical appearance or lack of cleanliness * Changes in mental status * Caregivers that do not want patient to be left alone with others Not all patients with these symptoms have been subject to nursing home abuse but any sign should be cause for further investigation. RECENT NEWS & UPDATES * An LPN Is Convicted in Nursing Home Abuse Case * Nursing Home Employee Charged with Abusing Elderly Residents * Abuse List Being Utilized to Protect Nursing Home Patients * Nursing Home Abuse in Hopkins Caught on Camera * Nursing Homes Face Funding Cuts in Light of Incidents of Elder

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