Recognizing and Responding to Nursing Home Negligence in Ohio

Nursing homes are intended to be safe, caring environments for elderly individuals who require assistance with daily living or medical care. Families trust these facilities to provide professional care, dignity, and compassion to their loved ones. Unfortunately, that trust is sometimes broken through acts of negligence or abuse. When a nursing home fails in its duty, the consequences can be severe—leading to physical injuries, emotional trauma, and in some cases, loss of life.

At Gioffre Schroeder & Jansky Co., L.P.A., we take these cases seriously. We will help you understand what nursing home negligence looks like, the legal responsibilities of care facilities, and what steps you can take if you suspect your loved one has been harmed.

What Is Nursing Home Negligence in Ohio?

Nursing home negligence occurs when a facility or its staff fails to provide the appropriate standard of care expected in the industry, leading to harm to the resident. This is not always intentional abuse—it often includes failure to act or oversight in providing necessary care.

Negligence can range from inadequate medical care to poor hygiene and insufficient supervision. While some signs are obvious, others are subtle and require careful attention.

Common Forms of Nursing Home Negligence in Ohio

Understanding the different types of negligence can help you identify when something is wrong. Some of the most common include:

1. Medical Negligence

• Failing to administer medication correctly or on time
• Ignoring changes in a resident’s medical condition
• Delayed response to medical emergencies
• Not coordinating with healthcare professionals for specialized care

2. Neglect of Basic Needs

• Malnutrition or dehydration
• Unsanitary living conditions
• Lack of assistance with bathing or toileting
• Ignored hygiene standards for bedding and clothing

3. Emotional or Social Neglect

• Isolation from family or social activities
• Ignoring emotional needs or changes in behavior
• Harsh or dismissive treatment by staff

4. Personal Safety Negligence

• Inadequate fall prevention measures
• Unsafe equipment or living areas
• Poor monitoring of residents with dementia or mobility issues

Signs

Being proactive about your loved one’s care means watching for signs of trouble. Here are some red flags to look for:

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or fractures
• Bedsores or pressure ulcers
• Sudden weight loss or signs of malnutrition
• Poor hygiene or unchanged clothing
• Increased confusion, withdrawal, or signs of depression
• Frequent infections or illnesses without clear explanation
• Repeated falls or medical emergencies
• Staff avoiding questions or being defensive

Documentation is key—take notes, photographs, and track patterns of concerning behavior. These records will be crucial if legal action becomes necessary.

Legal Responsibilities of Nursing Homes

Under Ohio law, nursing homes are legally obligated to provide a reasonable standard of care. This duty includes both the physical and emotional well-being of each resident. The Ohio Department of Health and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regulate long-term care facilities to ensure they meet these standards.

Facilities must follow care plans developed for each resident, based on their specific health needs and limitations. Staff must also undergo training, and the facility must maintain adequate staffing levels to meet patient needs.

When a nursing home violates these standards, the result may be considered negligence or even elder abuse, depending on the severity and intent.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Negligence

If you suspect your loved one is being neglected, take these steps immediately:

1. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of your observations, including dates, times, symptoms, conversations with staff, and photographs if applicable.

2. Speak to the Facility’s Management

Address your concerns with nursing home supervisors. Ask to see care plans and inquire about staffing levels, medical protocols, and any recent incidents involving your loved one.

3. File a Complaint with the State

In Ohio, you can file a complaint with the Ohio Department of Health or the Long-Term Care Ombudsman. These agencies will conduct investigations and follow up on care concerns.

4. Contact a Nursing Home Negligence Attorney

Not all issues can be resolved through internal channels. If the facility is not responsive or if your loved one has been seriously harmed, legal action may be necessary. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options and pursue compensation.

What You May Be Entitled To

If nursing home negligence is proven, your family may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to the injury or neglect
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Wrongful death (in the case of a fatal incident)
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or abuse

The legal team at Gioffre Schroeder & Jansky Co., L.P.A. has extensive experience helping families hold negligent facilities accountable and recover damages that can support long-term care or recovery.

Why Choose GSJ Law?

At Gioffre Schroeder & Jansky Co., L.P.A., we believe that every elderly individual deserves to live with dignity, respect, and proper care. We fight for families facing injustice in nursing homes and bring legal pressure against facilities that fail to uphold their duty of care.

We combine thorough legal investigation with compassionate client service. Our attorneys will:

• Review medical records and facility reports
• Interview witnesses and staff
• Work with medical experts to determine standards of care
• Build a strong case for compensation
• Represent you through negotiation or trial

Contact Gioffre Schroeder & Jansky Co., L.P.A.

Nursing home negligence is a serious issue that can lead to long-term harm and even loss of life. No family should have to face this alone. If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of neglect or mistreatment, do not wait. Contact Gioffre Schroeder & Jansky Co., L.P.A. today to schedule a consultation and protect your loved one’s rights and well-being.