Nursing Home Negligence
Vulnerable Residents Betrayed
Health care providers have a duty to follow accepted practice standards and properly train nursing home employees in the high standard of care. But all too often, older patients are subject to physical, financial, emotional or sexual abuse. That is not how it should be. But if this happens to a loved one, you can fight back. Nursing home owners and employees can be held responsible for negligent supervision and care, negligent hiring and maintenance issues that harm their residents.
At Bizzieri Law Offices, we use our extensive personal injury law experience to help you secure maximum compensation and justice for negligent nursing home care. We can examine every angle, from statutory standards of care to negligence laws, to get the best possible result for you.
HOW TO SPOT NURSING HOME NEGLIGENCE/ABUSE
If your loved one exhibits any of these symptoms or behaviors, it is possible they are being neglected or abused:
- Bedsores
- Dehydration
- Urinary tract infections
- Weight loss
- Bruises
- Emotional volatility
- Wandering
It is especially important to have the guidance of an experienced personal injury lawyer in a nursing home case, because expert medical testimony is often needed to prove improper treatment. The nursing home may also try to argue that the injury was caused by deteriorating health or medical complications. Our team will work to prove that your loved one was mistreated.
SPEAK WITH AN EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY TODAY
If a care provider’s negligence has harmed one of your loved ones, we can help. Call our Chicago office at 773-917-6096 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation.
Some Things You Should Know About Nursing Home Negligence
The Warning Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
Knowing the warning signs of nursing home neglect can help you identify potential abuse or neglect of your loved one. These signs include:
- Unexplained injuries or bruises
- Malnutrition or dehydration
- Poor hygiene or unsanitary conditions
- Changes in behavior or mood
- Unexplained weight loss
The Rights of Nursing Home Residents in Illinois
Nursing home residents in Illinois have specific rights under state and federal law. These rights include:
- The right to be free from abuse and neglect
- The right to receive proper medical care
- The right to privacy and dignity
- The right to participate in care planning
- The right to file complaints without retaliation
The Role of the Illinois Department of Public Health in Nursing Home Regulation
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) plays a crucial role in regulating nursing homes in the state. The IDPH:
- Conducts regular inspections and surveys
- Investigates complaints and allegations of abuse or neglect
- Issues fines and penalties for non-compliance
- Provides resources and guidance for nursing home residents and families
Practice Areas
Employment Law
Legal Malpractice
Nursing Home Negligence FAQ: Click on the Frequently Asked Questions Below to See Our Response
What are the most common types of nursing home negligence?
Nursing home negligence can take many forms, including:
- Medication errors, such as overmedication, undermedication, or incorrect medication administration
- Falls, which can result in fractures, head trauma, or other serious injuries
- Pressure sores, also known as bedsores, which can lead to infection and other complications
- Malnutrition and dehydration, which can cause a range of health problems, including weight loss, fatigue, and organ failure
- Emotional abuse, such as verbal harassment, intimidation, or isolation
Can I sue a nursing home for negligence in Illinois?
Yes, if you or a loved one has been injured due to nursing home negligence, you may be able to file a lawsuit under Illinois personal injury law. To succeed in a nursing home negligence claim, you must show that the nursing home breached its duty of care to the resident, resulting in harm. This can involve demonstrating that the nursing home failed to:
- Provide adequate staffing or training
- Implement proper safety protocols
- Conduct regular health assessments
- Respond promptly to medical emergencies
What damages can I recover in a nursing home negligence case in Illinois?
In a nursing home negligence case, you may be able to recover various damages, including:
- Medical expenses, past and future, related to the injury
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages, intended to punish the nursing home for egregious conduct
- Compensation for loss of consortium, if the injury affected the resident’s relationships
How long do I have to file a nursing home negligence lawsuit in Illinois?
The statute of limitations in Illinois for nursing home negligence cases is typically 2 years from the date of the injury. However, this timeframe can be extended in certain circumstances, such as:
- If the injury was not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may start from the date of discovery
- If the defendant is a government entity, the statute of limitations may be shorter or longer
Do I need an attorney to handle my nursing home negligence case in Illinois?
Yes, an experienced Illinois personal injury attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your nursing home negligence case. They can:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of the incident and gather evidence
- Identify all potential defendants and their insurance coverage
- Negotiate with insurance companies and defendants to secure fair compensation
- Represent you in court, if necessary
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773.881.9000
