Bethesda Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer Helping Families in Bethesda, MD

Nursing home neglect and abuse are grave issues that affect some of the most vulnerable members of our society. When families in Bethesda, Maryland place their loved ones in the care of nursing homes, they expect these facilities to provide the highest standards of care. Unfortunately, many nursing homes fail to meet these standards, and patients can suffer serious harm as a result. At Serafini Law, we are dedicated to defending the rights of nursing home residents in neighborhoods such as Bethesda Row, Downtown Bethesda, and Woodmont Triangle and helping families address situations where their loved ones did not receive the care they deserve.

Bethesda Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Statistics

Unfortunately, injuries from nursing home negligence are all too common in Maryland. According to the Maryland Department of Aging's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, there were 283 abuse allegations in nursing homes during a recent year, including 70 allegations of gross neglect. The Maryland Department of Health's Office of Health Care Quality reported receiving 1,382 reports of alleged abuse and 836 allegations of neglect in long-term care facilities during the same period. These figures underscore the importance of vigilance and legal action to address harm suffered by nursing home residents in Bethesda and throughout Maryland.

How Our Bethesda Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer Can Help

Our attorney has extensive experience handling nursing home neglect cases in Bethesda and other parts of Maryland. We understand the nuances and challenges involved in these cases. With a deep familiarity with the Bethesda community and an understanding of the state laws and local regulations that play a role in these cases, we are well-equipped to pursue justice for nursing home residents who have been injured.

Navigating situations involving nursing home neglect or abuse can be daunting, especially for those who are already dealing with the emotional and physical toll these situations have taken on a family. Our Bethesda nursing home neglect lawyer can provide compassionate, comprehensive legal support, working diligently to investigate the circumstances of a case, gather proof of negligence, and hold a nursing home accountable.

Understanding Maryland's Nursing Home Laws and Regulations

Nursing homes in Maryland are subject to strict regulations designed to protect residents. With our understanding of these regulations, we can make sure facilities will be held accountable for neglect or abuse suffered by patients. Here are some specific factors that may play a role in these cases:

• Licensing Requirements: Maryland nursing home providers must obtain a license from the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Health, ensuring that they meet specific standards of care and safety. If a facility fails to meet these benchmarks, it can face penalties, including fines, suspension of operations, or revocation of its license.
• Montgomery County Regulations: Nursing homes in Bethesda and Montgomery County must comply with additional regulations. For instance, County Code § 25-24A requires nursing homes to provide new or prospective residents with information about family councils. These councils give families a voice in the care their loved ones receive.
• Stricter Compliance Requirements: In Maryland, if there is a conflict between federal and state law, nursing homes must follow the more stringent law. This ensures that residents receive the highest possible standard of care.

Types of Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Cases We Handle

Nursing home negligence can take many different forms. Some of the most common issues our Bethesda nursing home neglect attorney can address include:

• Malnutrition and Dehydration: When nursing home residents do not receive adequate food and/or liquids, they can suffer from serious health issues. Malnutrition and dehydration often result from neglect, such as inadequate staffing or poorly trained caregivers. These conditions can lead to a weakened immune system, increased risk of infections, and even death.
• Medication Errors: When staff members administer the wrong medications or incorrect dosages, nursing home residents can suffer serious harm, including adverse reactions, worsening medical conditions, or even death.
• Improper Wound Care: Bedsores and other wounds are common among nursing home residents, especially those with limited mobility. Improper care of wounds can lead to infections, sepsis, and long-term health complications.
• Lack of Supervision: Adequate supervision is critical in preventing accidents, falls, and other injuries in nursing homes. When staff members fail to provide proper supervision, residents are placed at risk of serious harm.
• Sexual Abuse: Inadequate supervision or negligent hiring practices can lead to situations where patients are sexually abused. This is a horrific violation of trust that can leave lasting physical and emotional scars.
• Physical Abuse: Actions such as hitting, slapping, or using excessive force against nursing home residents are intolerable. Our firm represents victims of physical abuse and works to secure compensation for their injuries and suffering.
• Misuse of Physical Restraints: Although staff members at a nursing home may use physical restraints in certain situations, such as to keep a person from falling out of a chair or a bed, misusing or overusing this equipment may constitute abuse. Restraints can cause physical injuries and emotional trauma.

Legal Process for Filing a Claim

The first step to take if you suspect that your loved one has been abused or neglected is to document their injuries and the harm they have suffered. Take photographs of any physical injuries or poor conditions, keep detailed notes on specific incidents with dates, and gather relevant medical records. Getting contact information for potential witnesses supporting your case is also essential.

Serafini Law can help you determine how to proceed with your case. We can help you gather evidence of negligence, and we will advise you on whether you should file a complaint with the Maryland Department of Health or contact law enforcement. We will help you explore your legal options and make sure you take the correct steps to address the harm your loved one has suffered, recover compensation from a negligent nursing home, and prevent these types of injuries from occurring in the future.

Potential Compensation in Nursing Home Neglect Cases

People who have experienced nursing home neglect or abuse in Bethesda may receive multiple different types of compensation, which can include:

• Medical Expenses: A nursing home may be required to pay compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care required due to neglect or abuse.
• Pain and Suffering: These damages can address the bodily pain and emotional distress caused by abuse or negligence.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious behavior or gross negligence, courts may award these types of damages to discipline the negligent facility and help prevent future misconduct.
• Wrongful Death: If nursing home neglect or abuse results in the death of a loved one, their surviving family members may receive compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.

Contact Our Bethesda, Maryland Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer

When a loved one has suffered from nursing home neglect or abuse in Bethesda, Maryland, you should not wait to take action. The attorney at Serafini Law are here to help you fight for justice. Contact us today at 240-744-1600 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in recovering compensation and holding a nursing home accountable for negligence. You can speak with us in person, over the phone, or via video conference.