Home » Law and Legal Articles » Neglect Occurs In South Carolina Nursing Homes
Neglect Occurs In South Carolina Nursing Homes
Most of the nursing homes in the state provide adequate care, but there are instances of abuse. For that reason, those who are searching need to carefully research their options, and then watch for signs of physical and emotional abuse once the individual is in care.
October 08, 2011 /Law and Legal PR News/ -- Neglect Occurs In South Carolina Nursing Homes
Families in South Carolina who face the task of placing someone they love in a nursing care facility will find a wide range of care options available. Most of the nursing homes in the state provide adequate care, but there are instances of abuse. For that reason, those who are searching need to carefully research their options, and then watch for signs of physical and emotional abuse once the individual is in care.
Physical abuse for some nursing home residents is a sad reality. Signs of physical abuse may include injuries, cuts, burns and abrasions with no obvious cause. Even if a reason is given, injuries that occur with regularity may be a sign of physical abuse.
Emotional abuse can cause an individual to become withdrawn, quiet, and even infantile in behavior. Another form of abuse, neglect, can also occur and lead to bedsores, poor hygienic care, or improper medication or nutrition. In some documented cases, workers will even steal from patients.
Sadly, not enough has been done to protect the elderly in South Carolina's nursing homes. In 2010, a bill was introduced that would require owners to have background checks, and lawmakers suggested an amendment that would apply to workers as well. This amendment would have prevented those convicted of certain crimes from being employed in care facilities as direct caregivers. While the bill passed, the amendment did not, because senators felt it was added at the last minute and removed it in order to see the remainder of the bill pass. A separate bill is now being discussed that would put the same restrictions on employees as well as owners.
Medicare rates South Carolina as average for its total number of elderly health care facility deficiencies. Still, neglect and abuse can happen. Until more is done on the state level, it is up to families to ensure that their loved ones are taken care of at nursing care facilities.
If you have someone in care, make sure you maintain an active role in their life so you can spot potential signs of abuse. If you believe a loved one is being abused, contact the authorities. In addition, you can hold those responsible obtaining damages for the harm caused. Contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case.
Article provided by Stampfle Law Firm
Visit us at www.stampflelawfirm
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