If you have a loved one living in a care home, it’s important to be able to spot any early signs of care home abuse or nursing home mistreatment.
Obvious signs of care home abuse can include:
Pressure ulcers – With advances in technology and simple measures such as regular repositioning, 95% of pressure ulcers are considered to be avoidable. If your loved one is suffering from a pressure ulcer, it is very likely to be the result of negligent care.
Malnourishment and dehydration – This can happen if carers do not help their patients to eat and drink, or if food and drink is placed out of their reach. Failure to administer medication If patients are unable to administer their own medication, it is the responsibility of their carer to ensure prescriptions are taken. If you are concerned, it is important to ask questions.
Bruises – Abrasions or bruises on your loved ones could occur accidentally, however it could be the result of poor moving and handling or falls.
Signs of fearfulness – When visiting loved ones, it’s important to ask questions and assess their sense of wellbeing. Sometimes care home abuse can be emotional rather than physical and take the form of carers shouting and threatening patients. This may result in changes in your relative’s behaviour which is a sign to look out for.