Northern Kentucky Understaffed Care Facilities
Nursing homes and other care facilities are charged with maintaining the safety and security of their residents. Unfortunately, some nursing homes are without adequate security, and wandering and elopement can occur. When a resident wanders away from his or her home, serious injuries can be sustained. The nursing home is then liable for the injuries that were suffered as a result of its negligence.
We are Busald Funk Zevely, P.S.C. Clients have trusted us with their nursing home negligence and abuse cases, including wandering, elopement, dehydration and malnutrition, since 1971. Located in Florence, Kentucky, we represent families throughout the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati region that have concerns about loved ones in nursing homes. Contact us today to learn more about how wandering and elopement in nursing home situations are handled.
Causes of Wandering and Elopement
There are several factors that may contribute to a resident's ability to wander away from his or her nursing home such as:
- Improper supervision or monitoring
- Understaffing
- High-risk patients not being close to nurses' stations
- No guards or security cameras
- Inadequate locks on doors
- Failure to place alarms or bells on doors
By correcting these issues, nursing homes can better protect their residents and ensure their continued security.
Injuries From Wandering and Elopement
Serious injuries can be suffered by nursing home residents who wander away from the facility on their own, including:
- Broken bones from falls
- Heat stroke
- Hypothermia
- Head injuries
- Serious abrasions and lacerations
- Exacerbation of current health conditions
Unfortunately, sometimes residents are not found in time and their death may occur as a result of the wandering or elopement. We handle the wrongful death lawsuits that follow the passing of a loved one who wandered from his or her nursing home.
Federal Nursing Home Regulations
There are federal laws that govern nursing homes which require that every resident be assessed when he or she enters a facility. This assessment must be updated regularly and should include any changes in health, mental capacity and ability to function independently. The results of these assessments must then be reflected in the security measures taken for that resident. If these assessments are not done, and action is not taken, the nursing homes may be liable for injuries suffered as a result.
Contact Our Northern Kentucky Wandering and Elopement Attorneys
Let us help you deal with the injuries a loved one suffered as the result of nursing home negligence leading to wandering or elopement. Contact us online or call 859-795-4263 or 513-258-0542 to schedule a free initial consultation with a personal injury and nursing home abuse lawyer at our office.
