According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in six nursing home residents suffer some form of abuse while in the facility. The study also shows that two out of three staff members confess to committing some form of elder abuse. While these numbers are astonishing, they are unacceptable as no form of elder abuse should exist in the first place.
If you have a loved one in a nursing home facility in Tucson and believe they are the victim of physical abuse, you may need the help of a Tucson unexplained bruises or cuts or burns lawyer. That is where Pintas & Mullins Law Firm comes in. We can help you seek justice for your loved one, recover damages, and hold the liable parties accountable for their injuries. Call us to discuss your case with a member of our team.
Signs of Physical Abuse in Nursing Homes
Since you do not live with your elderly loved one, it may be nearly impossible to keep an eye on them at all times. The possible warning signs of physical abuse provided by HelpGuide, can help you determine if your loved one is in danger.
- Broken bones and fractures. Broken bones in the elderly can lead to disabilities, debilitating injuries, and even death. As such, it is not to be taken lightly if the facility reports that your loved one suffered a broken bone from an accidental fall. Seek a second medical opinion immediately as there is a difference between fractures caused by assault and falls.
- Bruises, cuts, and scrapes. Unexplained injury to the skin can be a legitimate reason of concern since it could be a result of your loved one being restrained, grabbed, or assaulted with an object. When you are with your loved one, check their wrists, ankles, and upper arms as they are the areas that are typically restrained. You can also check their backs and thighs for signs of cuts.
- Broken accessories or aids. While it may seem like nothing, broken eyeglasses, frames, and walking aids could be a sign of physical abuse. If the abuser strikes the victim across the face, they may also suffer cuts and lacerations to the nose, eye area, and cheekbones.
- Sudden changes in personality. Your loved one becoming socially distant or losing interest in the activities they once enjoyed could be a sign that they are being abused. Isolating themselves from social gatherings could be an indication of fear.
- Complaining about a staff member or fellow resident. If they express concerns about a particular individual, you should take it seriously. While every accusation or complaint may be not valid, you do not want to be disinterested or make it difficult for them to open up to you.
What to Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
Abuse of any kind should not go unchecked. So, if you suspect that your loved one is a victim of physical abuse, you can do the following:
- Speak to your loved one. It is important to ask them how they were injured. Note down their response to each injury and how it occurred.
- Ask questions. While being rational, question the staff and management about the unexplained injuries your loved one suffered. Ask direct questions and be willing to hear them out. If they are unable to provide logical answers, prepare to lodge a formal complaint.
- Speak with the residents. You can ask the other residents about your loved one’s interaction with the staff and how they were injured. Write down their responses and see if you notice any pattern.
- Report the abuse. If you feel your loved one is in grave danger, report the issue to the police immediately and have them removed from the facility.
- Seek the legal counsel of a Tucson unexplained bruises or cuts or burns lawyer. After you file a report to the nursing home administration, hire a lawyer from Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to investigate your claims.
For a free legal consultation with a Unexplained Bruises or Cuts or Burns Lawyer serving Tucson, call (800) 794-0444
Working with Pintas & Mullins Law Firm
When you hire us, we will move immediately to protect the legal rights of your loved one. Our steps include investigating the abuse and finding the responsible parties. We will also consult with medical experts to verify your claims and provide insight that may have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. Per liability, the following can be held accountable for your loved one’s injuries:
- The nursing home for failing to investigate potential staff before hiring them. They can also be held liable for running an unsupervised facility.
- The abuser. Once we identify the abuser, who is typically a member of the staff, they can face criminal and civil charges for the intentional pain they inflicted on your loved one.
- A fellow resident. Another resident may be behind the unexplained injuries your loved one suffered.
Tucson Unexplained Bruises or Cuts or Burns Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
Hiring Pintas & Mullins Law Firm
We know it is a very difficult situation to be in if your loved one is being abused by those you trusted to care for them. While you may be dealing with a variety of emotions, it is vital to remain calm and seek a resolution that will not put your loved one in danger or cause further harm to them. A Tucson unexplained bruises or cuts or burns lawyer from Pintas & Mullins Law Firm can help you.
To speak with a member of our team, call us. We are a personal injury law firm that has helped hundreds of people like you, and we look forward to providing legal counsel and helping you weigh your options.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
