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Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Underreported
Posted on Jan 29, 2009
New studies have shown that nursing home abuse and neglect is grossly under-reported. In an Israeli study only 6% of nursing home patients said they would report being abused or neglected. However, when the researchers studied hospital records of patients admitted from nursing homes, they found 21% exhibited signs of abuse including burns, dehydration, malnutrition, unexplained bruises, and poor hygiene. In the United States, there are 2500 reported cases of nursing home residents being physically abused annually. That is certainly only a fraction of the number of unreported cases. New efforts are being made to identify victims of nursing home abuse and neglect. Hospital employees are being asked to look for signs of abuse and neglect much the way pediatricians screen for child abuse. You can also be on the lookout for signs that a loved one is being abused or neglected by being observant and listening. Warning signs include pressure sores, bruises, weight loss, poor hygiene, anger, and behavioral problems. If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a nursing home take action. You are invited to contact us for a free evaluation of your legal rights.
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