Does Medical Malpractice Happen in Nursing Homes?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, well over 15,000 nursing homes operate throughout the United States. Nursing homes provide a much-needed service for older adults who can no longer safely and competently care for themselves in their own homes and live independently.

While some nursing homes can be comfortable places to live where great care is given, there are several cases where residents in such facilities have suffered abuse, neglect, or mistreatment. The CDC considers elder abuse in nursing homes a severe public health problem.

If your loved one was harmed in a nursing home or if they lost their lives from the improper actions of nursing home staff, in Florida, the Tampa wrongful death attorneys at Fulgencio Law can help you seek justice on their behalf. A skilled attorney will work to obtain compensation for the harm that was inflicted upon the victim.

Medical Malpractice in Nursing Homes

Often it is the case that nursing home residents will need medical care and treatment while they are living in a long-term care facility. Some of the specific reasons why a family may choose one residence over another are because of this treatment, the quality of medical care, and the reputation of the staff. However, when staff and medical providers are negligent in their care, they often make mistakes that greatly impact residents’ health, wellbeing, safety, and life.

In Florida, over 40% of the population is over 50. Florida ranks number five for the number of people living in the state aged 50 and above. Florida is one of the prime locations for retirees because of its general affordability and warm climate. As a result, there are many senior living communities and nursing homes throughout the state to accommodate these individuals.

Being present and visiting your loved one in a nursing home is not only good for their personal morale but also can safeguard them from abuse. There are signs that exist when elder abuse or neglect is present. Some of these include:

• Excess weight loss
• Increased confusion 
• Withdrawal from social situations
• Increased anxiety and uneasiness
• Bruising

These are just some examples, but there are many red flags to keep an eye out for when you visit your loved one.

If your loved one was abused and injured or if they lost their life because of the actions or inactions of the nursing home staff where they live, you may be able to file a Florida medical malpractice claim to hold accountable those that caused your loved one harm. For help filing a claim or for your questions about medical malpractice, the Tampa medical malpractice attorneys at Fulgencio Law are here to offer assistance.

Speak with a Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney Today

When nursing home negligence leads to injuries or death, families can take legal action against the facility and the staff who are responsible. Reach out to the Tampa injury attorneys at Fulgencio Law for more information. You can schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys by calling (813) 463-0123.