Des Moines Attorneys Pursuing Justice For Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect
The decision to move into a nursing home yourself or to place a parent or disabled relative in such a care facility is never easy. However, after making that decision, you rightfully expect nursing home personnel to care for all residents according to reasonable standards. When you place a loved one in assisted care, not only should their needs be met, but they should also be met with dignity as well.
Sadly, applicable standards of care are violated every day in nursing homes across the U.S. The elderly are vulnerable to unnecessary pain and suffering, life-threatening illnesses and even early death. If you have reason to suspect nursing home negligence or abuse in Iowa, we encourage you to contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Galligan Law.
Iowa Nursing Homes Allow Too Much Abuse And Neglect
At Galligan Law, we are acutely aware of the dangers residents face in Iowa nursing. Part of the problem is the lack of stringent oversight. This has too often let nursing facilities cut corners that result in substandard care and, in some cases, outright elder abuse.
But regardless of regulation, ultimately it is the care facilities that are responsible. In our experience as nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys, we have seen how understaffing, high turnover rates and minimal training contribute to these issues. Such conditions not only compromise the quality of care but also the dignity and safety of residents in long-term care facilities.
One alarming example is a West Des Moines nursing home that was placed on a federal watch list after a resident suffered a tormented death from sepsis, which resulted from an undiagnosed bowel obstruction and delayed hospital treatment. This is just one of many instances that underscore the critical need for vigilance and advocacy in protecting our elderly population. One way to protect others and prevent this type of tragedy from happening is to file a legal claim when your loved one suffers abuse or neglect in their care facility.
Has Your Loved One Passed Away Or Suffered Serious Injury In A Nursing Home?
Elder abuse and neglect in nursing homes take many forms. You likely received assurances about the quality of care. Administrators and staff may be behind the mistreatment themselves. Be aware of serious abuse signs such as:
- Bedsores or pressure sores (also called decubitus ulcers) caused by failure to reposition a bedridden patient often enough
- Falling injuries stemming from Inadequate supervision or otherwise unsafe conditions in the nursing home
- Adverse health effects from malnutrition and dehydration
- Failure to seek timely, appropriate medical attention for a resident’s infection or other serious medical condition
- Physical abuse or cruelty by nursing home staff
- Patients getting lost or injured when they elope (wander away) due to lax security and supervision
If elder neglect has caused pain in your family, do not hesitate to seek legal counsel. Our attorneys in Des Moines are devoted to getting results for our clients who have been impacted by nursing home neglect and abuse.
We Will Investigate Abuse Or Neglect Claims And Take Decisive Legal Action
Our law firm takes action to investigate serious allegations of nursing home negligence and abuse. We prioritize exposure and accountability for the egregious treatment of our elders, especially when administrators engage in a pattern of denial to avoid financial accountability. Our Iowa nursing home abuse attorneys are up to challenges including:
- Proving the role of factors, such as negligent hiring, inadequate staffing or training, and profit-motivated business decisions, in causing serious personal injury or a wrongful death
- Persuading insurance adjusters and, when necessary, trial juries to assign substantial value to the life, health and dignity of nursing home residents
We encourage everyone to carefully consider their choice of a nursing home and keep tabs on residents’ health and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Home Injuries
Our attorneys at Galligan Law understand how devastating it can be when a trusted long-term care facility fails in its duty of care, leading to nursing home injury or even wrongful death. We are here to provide support, answer your questions and help navigate the complex legal landscape to ensure justice for your loved one.
Can you sue a nursing home?
You can sue a nursing home in Iowa if you believe that negligence or abuse has occurred. The process involves filing a lawsuit against the facility for failing to meet the required standards of care. Our lawyers are here to help gather evidence, establish liability and represent you throughout the legal proceedings to seek compensation for the harm caused to your loved one.
What are the signs or red flags of abuse and neglect in long-term care facilities?
Recognizing the signs of nursing home abuse and neglect is crucial in protecting your loved ones and stopping further abuse from occurring. Some red flags include unexplained injuries, such as bruises or fractures; sudden changes in behavior; poor hygiene; and signs of malnutrition or dehydration. If you notice frequent and unexplained illnesses or a staff that is evasive and unwilling to provide information, these too can be indicators of underlying problems.
How do I prove my suspicions that my loved one is being abused or neglected?
Proving your suspicions involves documenting all potential evidence of abuse or neglect. This includes medical records, photographs of injuries and written accounts of any incidents. It is also helpful to maintain records of conversations with staff and other residents. Our attorneys can assist in collecting and organizing this information to build a strong case on your behalf.
What are the potential remedies in nursing home negligence cases?
In Iowa, remedies for nursing home negligence can include compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages aimed at punishing the facility for egregious misconduct. Each case is unique, so our lawyers work closely with you to determine the most appropriate course of action and ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Let A Trial Lawyer Hear From You
Our experience and our solid track record have earned us the respect of Iowa’s legal community. Our reputation is an asset to our clients. Judges and opposing counsel know we will take cases to trial if necessary, and win.
If you suspect neglect or abuse, please contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation with a personal injury attorney who will treat you with respect and prioritize justice in your case. Call Local: 515-316-6179 or send an inquiry by email.
