8 Key Signs of Nursing Home Negligence

Deciding to place a loved one in a nursing home is often one of the most difficult choices a family can make. Unfortunately, even in facilities that claim to offer the highest standard of care, instances of neglect or abuse can occur. If you suspect that your family member is not receiving the care they deserve, it’s important to be aware of the signs of nursing home negligence and to understand your legal rights in Ohio. Nursing home negligence can take many forms, from medical neglect to emotional and financial abuse. While each situation is unique, there are some key signs that can help you identify whether your loved one is being mistreated or neglected. Knowing these signs could make all the difference in safeguarding their well-being.

1. Unexplained Injuries

One of the clearest indicators of nursing home negligence is unexplained injuries. Falls, bruises, cuts, or broken bones that staff cannot reasonably explain may point to a lack of supervision or improper care. Residents who are not properly monitored, especially those with mobility issues, are at greater risk for accidents and injuries. In Ohio, nursing homes are legally required to provide a safe environment and maintain adequate supervision of their residents. When this duty of care is breached, the facility may be held accountable for any injuries that occur as a result. If you notice frequent or unexplained injuries, it’s crucial to ask questions and request detailed incident reports.

2. Poor Hygiene and Unsanitary Conditions

Nursing homes are responsible for ensuring that residents live in clean and hygienic conditions. Signs of poor hygiene—such as soiled bedding, dirty clothes, unkempt appearance, or bad odors—can indicate neglect. If staff are not providing proper assistance with bathing, dressing, or grooming, it may be a warning sign of broader issues in the facility’s care practices. Similarly, the overall cleanliness of the nursing home should be carefully monitored. Unsanitary conditions such as dirty bathrooms, food areas, or common spaces can lead to infections and illness, particularly for elderly residents with compromised immune systems. Ohio law mandates that nursing homes adhere to strict hygiene and cleanliness standards to protect residents from preventable health risks. Failing to meet these standards could be a sign of systemic neglect.

3. Sudden Changes in Behavior or Mood

Emotional and psychological changes can also be a sign that your loved one is being mistreated. If they seem withdrawn, depressed, or unusually anxious, it could be due to emotional abuse or neglect. Verbal abuse, isolation, and intimidation by staff members are forms of emotional mistreatment that can have a lasting impact on a resident’s well-being. Keep an eye on how your family member interacts with staff and other residents. If they seem afraid or hesitant around certain caregivers or if their mood shifts dramatically after a visit, it may be an indication that something is wrong. Ohio nursing homes are required to provide compassionate care, and any signs of emotional mistreatment should be taken seriously.

4. Bedsores (Pressure Ulcers)

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are a common sign of physical neglect in nursing homes. These painful sores develop when a resident is left in the same position for too long without being moved, particularly if they are bedridden or have limited mobility. Nursing home staff are responsible for regularly repositioning residents to prevent the development of bedsores. If your loved one has bedsores, especially if they are advanced, it may indicate that the staff is not providing adequate care. According to Ohio law, nursing homes must take proactive measures to prevent pressure ulcers, including regular repositioning, proper bedding, and addressing skin issues early on.

5. Dehydration and Malnutrition

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential to a resident’s health and quality of life. Signs of dehydration or malnutrition—such as dry skin, sunken eyes, weight loss, or weakness—should be addressed immediately. If a resident is not receiving enough food or fluids, it could be due to neglect by nursing home staff. In Ohio, nursing homes are required to provide residents with meals and hydration that meet their dietary needs. If you suspect that your loved one is not being fed properly or is being denied access to fluids, this could constitute neglect. Malnutrition and dehydration can lead to serious medical complications and should never be ignored.

6. Overmedication or Under-medication

The proper administration of medication is a critical part of nursing home care. Overmedication can sedate a resident, making them easier to manage, while undermedication can leave them in unnecessary pain or discomfort. Both are serious forms of neglect and can lead to dangerous health outcomes.

If you notice signs of confusion, excessive drowsiness, or worsening medical conditions, it’s worth investigating whether your loved one is receiving the correct medications and dosages. Ohio nursing homes are legally obligated to manage medications properly, and failure to do so can lead to legal consequences for the facility.

7. Frequent Staffing Issues

A common contributing factor to nursing home negligence is inadequate staffing. If a nursing home is understaffed, employees may not be able to provide the necessary care and attention that residents require. High staff turnover, visibly overworked caregivers, or complaints about staff behavior may be signs that the facility is not adequately supporting its workforce. Ohio nursing homes must adhere to staffing regulations that ensure there are enough qualified caregivers to meet residents’ needs. If you notice that staff members seem overwhelmed, or if your loved one is not receiving timely care, it may be an indication of systemic problems in the facility’s management.

8. Poor Communication With Family Members

Transparency and communication are essential when it comes to nursing home care. If the facility’s staff is unresponsive to your concerns, fails to provide updates on your loved one’s condition, or seems evasive when you ask questions, it may be a red flag that something is wrong. In Ohio, nursing home facilities are required to keep families informed about their loved ones’ health and any incidents that occur in the home. Poor communication may indicate an attempt to hide instances of neglect or mistreatment.

GSJ Law: Nursing Home Negligence

Are you or a loved one grappling with the complexities of a nursing home negligence case? At Gioffre Schroeder & Jansky Co. L.P.A, our experienced attorneys in Cleveland, Ohio, are dedicated to guiding you through the legal maze with compassion and expertise. We understand the emotional and financial toll that nursing home negligence can take, and we’re here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t navigate this challenging journey alone; call us today at (216) 304-3532 or visit our website for a consultation and let us help you secure your future.