If you suspect your loved one’s nursing home is abusing or neglecting them, you may be unsure of the best way to address your concerns and keep your loved one safe. A Butte nursing home abuse lawyer from Everett Cook Law is here to help you understand the process and provide additional support and guidance when necessary.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse in Butte, MT
Abuse in a nursing home can present in many ways. However, some indicators of abuse that you may need to address concerns include:
- Bruises and lacerations without explanation
- Recurring or chronic sickness
- Bed sores
- Medication mixups
- Hygiene changes
- Dramatic or sudden changes in mood
You may find that your loved one is suddenly averse to a person or place, or they may tell you in plain language that someone is bothering or abusing them. It can be easy to dismiss some of the things residents say, but it is important to take these kinds of disclosures seriously.
You Do Not Have to Gather Evidence of Abuse to Report Concerns or Suspicions
Many people worry that a report immediately means someone will be in trouble, regardless of evidence, or even that they must provide the evidence to be taken seriously. However, this is not the case. If you are a mandated reporter in Montana, you know that you are responsible for reporting any concerns of suspected abuse or neglect, and the same is true for the loved ones and guardians of nursing home residents.
When you report your concerns, the receiving agency will likely ask you to provide any evidence you may happen to have to substantiate your concern. However, you can usually expect them to conduct their own investigation into the matter.
Make Contact in Writing
When you choose to report suspected abuse, it can be important to do so in writing. This creates a documented record of your attempts to notify the appropriate entity. We typically advise clients to include a narrative of their concerns, any relevant dates and times of incidents or disclosures, and any supporting evidence or documents you might have.
You Have Reporting Options
There are several entities to which you can make a report, but if there is no imminent threat that requires 911, we usually suggest that you begin with the facility. They may have a specific point of contact to whom you can report, or you may choose to go to the supervisor or director. If the facility fails to promptly address your concerns to ensure resident safety, you may need to escalate the situation.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
The long-term care ombudsman can act as a support to help you and the nursing home discuss concerns and come to a solution. They serve as a more informal type of accountability between yourself and Adult Protective Services.
Adult Protective Services
Montana Adult Protective Services is a state agency tasked with ensuring the safety of disabled and elderly adults. When you submit your report, they will review it and determine the most appropriate next steps. They will often call you to ask follow-up questions to determine what is needed.
The investigation usually has two outcomes: substantiated or unsubstantiated, where the case is closed without further action. A substantiated claim may result in fines, sanctions, or other disciplinary actions.
When to Call an Attorney
You can call an attorney at any stage of this process. Everett Cook Law can sit with you to discuss your options and help you prepare accordingly, even if it is by helping you speak with the facility.
If the facility has not taken the appropriate action, it may be time to schedule a free case consultation if you have not already. We can help you prepare for the next steps of the case and possibly pursue damages for their negligence.