NURSING HOME ABUSE & NEGLECT LAWYERS

• Document thoroughly with dates, times, and locations of each sore.
• Take clear, well-lit photographs with a ruler for scale if possible.
• Record all conversations with staff about the condition, including names and times.
• Keep a detailed log of wound progression, any treatments provided or missed, and how often the patient is repositioned.
• Save all medical records, care plans, and treatment notes.
• Note any signs of infection, pain levels, and how the condition impacts daily life.

Look for warning signs that preceded the death: sudden weight loss, dehydration, unexplained injuries, rapid decline in health, missed medications, or changes in behavior. Review medical records for proper care protocols, timely responses to health changes, and appropriate interventions. Consider if proper supervision was maintained and whether staff followed care plans. Signs of preventable death often include lack of documentation, delayed medical attention, or failure to transfer to emergency care when needed.

Document everything systematically:

• Physical signs of abuse (bruises, cuts, burns) with photos and descriptions
• Changes in behavior or emotional state
• Missing personal items or unexplained financial transactions
• Statements made by your loved one about their treatment
• Staff interactions and responses to concerns
• Facility conditions and any safety hazards
• Names and shifts of all caregivers involved
• Dates and times of suspicious incidents
• Witness names and contact information
• All communications with facility management

Yes, you can sue a nursing home for bedsores, particularly if they developed due to negligent care. Advanced bedsores (Stage 3 or 4) are considered “never events” that shouldn’t occur with proper care. Your case would need to demonstrate that the facility failed to:

• Regularly reposition the resident
• Maintain proper nutrition and hydration
• Assess skin condition regularly
• Implement preventive measures
• Provide timely treatment once bedsores developed

Statutes of limitations vary by state and type of claim. Generally, you have between 1 year from the discovery of abuse or injury to file a lawsuit. However, some states have specific requirements for nursing home cases. It’s crucial to consult with a nursing home abuse lawyer promptly to understand your specific deadlines, as waiting too long can permanently bar your claim.

After reporting abuse:

1. The state licensing agency will typically investigate within 24-48 hours for serious complaints
2. The facility may conduct an internal investigation
3. Adult Protective Services might get involved
4. Law enforcement may investigate if criminal conduct is suspected
5. The facility must create a plan of correction if violations are found
6. Monitoring and follow-up inspections may occur
7. Sanctions or penalties might be imposed on the facility

Most nursing home abuse attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict. Initial consultations are usually free. Some attorneys may also advance the costs of investigation and litigation, recovering these expenses only if the case is successful.

Yes, you can move your loved one to a different facility during a lawsuit. In fact, if abuse is ongoing, it’s often advisable to ensure their safety. The lawsuit can continue regardless of where they reside. However, document all conditions before the move and ensure proper transfer of medical records. The move should be handled professionally to avoid claims of disrupting care.

Look for an attorney who:

• Has specific experience with nursing home abuse cases
• Can provide examples of similar cases they’ve handled
• Has a track record of successful settlements or verdicts
• Communicates clearly and responds promptly
• Has resources to thoroughly investigate and litigate
• Shows genuine concern for your situation
• Is willing to explain their strategy and approach
• Has positive client testimonials or references
• Is familiar with state-specific nursing home regulations