When choosing a nursing home for your loved one, sanitation is often high on people’s priority list. While a facility may put its best foot forward at first, unfortunately, that high level you have come to expect often falls short. This can become dangerous for residents and may constitute abuse. Working with a Butte nursing home abuse lawyer with Everett Cook Law can help you determine what to do next.
Why Choose Us at Everett Cook Law?
At Everett Cook Law, we believe that your loved one deserves justice for any abuse they may have endured. We have over 65 years of combined experience, allowing us to leverage our knowledge to get the best results.
After putting your trust in a nursing home and being betrayed, we believe that you are owed experienced representation that is willing to fight.
Examples of Unsanitary Living Conditions in Nursing Homes
In nursing homes, sanitation goes beyond vacuuming and taking out the trash. These facilities often house residents with medical concerns, so a high level of cleanliness is non-negotiable. Examples of unsanitary conditions may include:
- Unwashed linens
- Unclean restrooms and shower areas
- Dishes in the eating spaces that are not properly washed
- Medical waste being disposed of improperly, i.e., insulin needles and other sharps, first aid equipment, or medications
- Residents appearing unclean or with unwashed clothing
Messes may happen, but spills and accidents should be cleaned promptly, common areas well maintained, and restrooms properly sanitized. If you notice any signs of unsanitary living conditions, contact our team at Everett Cook Law to see what to do next.
What Should I Do if a Loved One is Living in an Unsanitary Nursing Home?
Your top priority should be the health and safety of your loved one. If possible, remove them from the nursing home and find a safe alternative.
You can file a complaint with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Office. You should also secure the help of an experienced attorney. They can help you understand your rights.
How Long Do I Have To File a Nursing Home Abuse Claim in Montana?
Montana law states that you have 3 years to file an abuse claim for a loved one in a nursing home (Mont. Code Ann. § 27-2-204). However, the sooner you file your claim, the better preserved your evidence remains, giving you a higher likelihood of a successful case.
When Should I Contact a Butte Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer?
As soon as you suspect abuse is involved, you should contact a Butte nursing home abuse lawyer. This can look like your loved one telling you they are being abused, or you noticing signs of neglect such as insanitary living conditions, unexplained injuries, malnutrition, or unexplainable personality changes. Your lawyer can help you understand what steps to take next.
When you see signs that a loved one is being harmed, especially in a home that you trusted to take care of them, it can be devastating. It is your priority to keep them safe, and at Everett Cook Law, it is our priority to fight for their justice. You do not have to navigate this awful situation alone. We are here to help and take some of the burden off your shoulders.