The Connection Between Understaffing, Low Pay, and Nursing Home Abuse on Long Island

Nursing home abuse is a deeply troubling issue that affects countless families across Long Island. Many factors contribute to this problem, but one of the most significant is understaffing within nursing homes in both Nassau County and Suffolk County. Here at Alonso Krangle LLP, we believe it’s crucial to address the root causes of nursing home abuse by examining how understaffing and low pay impact resident care.

Understaffing in Long Island Nursing Homes: A Growing Concern

It’s no secret that many nursing homes struggle with maintaining adequate staff levels to provide proper care for residents. This issue is particularly prevalent across Long Island communities. Insufficient staffing can lead to overworked employees who may become more prone to making mistakes or neglect their duties – which can ultimately result in harm or mistreatment towards vulnerable residents.

Several factors contribute to chronic understaffing in our local nursing homes:

1. High turnover rates – Due to the demanding nature of caregiving roles and often inadequate compensation, many long-term care professionals leave their positions within months or even weeks after starting.
2. Difficulty attracting qualified candidates – With limited resources available for providing competitive wages or benefits packages, it can be challenging for facilities to attract skilled professionals.
3. Increasing demand for services – As our population ages, the need for long-term care services continues to grow. This increased demand puts additional strain on existing staff members, leading to burnout and further exacerbating the understaffing issue.

The Impact of Low Pay on Nursing Home Staff and Resident Care

Low pay is another significant factor contributing to poor quality care within Long Island nursing homes. When employees are not adequately compensated for their work, they may feel undervalued or even resentful – emotions that can negatively impact their job performance and ultimately affect resident care.

Moreover, low wages make it difficult for nursing homes to attract highly skilled professionals who can provide the level of care residents deserve. Many potential caregivers choose more lucrative career paths or seek employment in other industries with better compensation packages.

Addressing Understaffing and Low Pay: Solutions for Improving Long Island Nursing Homes

To improve conditions within our local nursing homes and protect residents from abuse or neglect, it’s crucial that we address the issues of understaffing and low pay head-on. Here are some potential solutions:

1. Increase funding for long-term care facilities – By investing more resources into our nursing homes, we can help ensure they have adequate funding to hire sufficient staff members and offer competitive wages.
2. Implement minimum staffing standards – Enforcing mandatory staffing ratios could help guarantee that all residents receive an appropriate level of attention and support from caregivers.
3. Promote awareness campaigns – Educating communities about the importance of quality caregiving can inspire more individuals to consider careers in this field.
4. Offer incentives for professional development – Providing opportunities for advancement or continuing education may encourage caregivers to remain employed within the long-term care sector.

Take Action Today: Protect Your Loved One’s Rights with Alonso Krangle LLP

If you suspect your family member has experienced abuse or neglect in a Long Island nursing home due to understaffing or inadequate employee compensation, it’s essential that you take action immediately. At Alonso Krangle LLP, we’re dedicated to helping families in Nassau County and Suffolk County pursue their rights and hold nursing home facilities accountable for providing the care residents deserve.

Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of nursing home abuse cases, and we’re prepared to fight for justice on behalf of your loved one. Don’t wait – contact Alonso Krangle LLP today at (800) 403-6191 to discuss your family member’s situation and explore your options for seeking compensation. Together, we can make a difference in ensuring that all Long Island seniors receive the quality care they deserve.

As advocates for the elderly, we at Alonso Krangle, LLP are dedicated to exposing the root causes of nursing home abuse and neglect in Long Island’s Nassau County and Suffolk County. One significant contributing factor is a chronic issue that plagues many facilities: understaffing due to low pay. In this post, we will discuss how this problem negatively impacts resident care in our local nursing homes, as well as potential solutions for addressing it.

The Connection Between Understaffing, Low Pay, and Nursing Home Abuse

Understaffed nursing homes often struggle to provide adequate care for their residents. This can lead to situations where staff members are overworked and stressed, resulting in an increased likelihood of mistakes or even deliberate acts of abuse or neglect.

When staff members are not adequately compensated for their work, they may become demotivated or resentful. This could result in a higher turnover rate among employees who seek better-paying jobs elsewhere. As a consequence, there may be fewer qualified staff members available to provide care for residents properly.

Long Island has experienced several instances where understaffed facilities have led to poor resident outcomes due to negligence or outright abuse (e.g., Cold Spring Hills Center incident).

The Challenges Facing the Nursing Home Industry

Recruiting and retaining qualified staff is one of the most significant challenges facing nursing homes today. With the aging population increasing, the demand for long-term care services is also on the rise. However, many nursing homes struggle to attract and keep qualified staff members due to low wages and inadequate working conditions.

In particular, certified nursing assistants (CNAs) often experience poor pay and challenging workloads. As a result, they may be more likely to seek employment elsewhere or leave the healthcare field altogether. This cycle of understaffing and high turnover rates can negatively affect resident care in several ways:

• Increased risk of medication errors
• Inadequate monitoring of residents
• Failure to address individual care needs
• Higher likelihood of physical or emotional abuse

Potential Solutions for Improving Staffing Levels and Working Conditions in Nursing Homes

There are several potential solutions that could help address the problem of understaffing and low pay in Long Island’s nursing homes:

1. Increased funding for long-term care: By allocating more resources to this sector, facilities could afford to offer higher wages and better working conditions for their employees.

2. Mandated staffing ratios: Establishing minimum staffing levels by law can help ensure that each resident receives adequate attention from qualified staff members.

3. Improved training opportunities: Providing ongoing education and professional development opportunities can help attract dedicated employees who are invested in providing quality care.

4. Support for whistleblowers: Encouraging employees to report instances of abuse or neglect without fear of reprisal can create a culture of accountability within facilities.

Take Action: Contact Alonso Krangle, LLP Today

If you believe your family member has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect due to understaffing or other factors in Long Island’s Nassau County or Suffolk County, it’s essential that you take action as soon as possible. Our experienced attorneys at Alonso Krangle, LLP are dedicated to advocating for the rights of elderly residents in our community.

Don’t let your loved one suffer any longer. Contact Alonso Krangle, LLP today to discuss your family member’s situation and pursue their rights or those of a loved one. Call (800) 403-6191 for assistance and let our team help you hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Residents of nursing homes deserve safe, quality care provided by qualified staff members. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. In Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island, numerous incidents have occurred that raise serious concerns about the effectiveness of oversight measures as well as penalties levied against facilities that fail to meet minimum standards. As advocates push for increased accountability within the industry, families must educate themselves about their rights while keeping a watchful eye out for signs of abuse or neglect among loved ones residing in nursing homes.

Current State of Nursing Home Oversight in New York

The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is responsible for overseeing nursing homes throughout the state. They conduct certification surveys at least once per year to ensure compliance with federal Medicare/Medicaid guidelines as well as state laws designed to protect public health. Additionally, they perform complaint-based surveys when potential violations are reported either by concerned family members or employees within a facility itself.

Unfortunately, critics argue these efforts are insufficient due to low inspection frequencies combined with inadequate financial consequences imposed upon offending institutions—both factors believed to contribute towards an environment where substandard care may continue unabated without significant repercussions.

Fines Imposed Against Offending Facilities Often Inadequate

Despite maximum allowable fines reaching $10,000 per violation under existing legislation governing operations across all 79 private facilities on Long Island, the reality is penalties often fall far short of this threshold. According to a Newsday report published in April 2023, 20 such nursing homes received $144,250 in combined fines during the prior year. While these monetary punishments are meant to deter facilities from cutting corners or neglecting basic responsibilities towards their residents, some argue that they merely represent “the cost of doing business” for many institutions.

In comparison with national averages calculated by policy analysts at the Kaiser Family Foundation—where each nursing home received approximately $33,000 per annum—New York State’s annual fine amount averaged slightly below $10,000 on a per-facility basis. This places New York within the bottom quarter when considered against other jurisdictions across America regarding financial penalties assessed against non-compliant establishments.

Advocates Pushing for Stricter Accountability Measures

Recognizing that existing oversight mechanisms may be insufficient in ensuring adequate care for vulnerable elderly populations residing within nursing homes on Long Island and beyond, advocates have taken up arms demanding change. One prominent voice championing accountability is Assemblyman Ron Kim (D-Queens), who has expressed support for granting inspectors greater authority to shutter facilities demonstrating repeated instances of gross negligence—a measure which he claims Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration has shown no appetite thus far.

Another proposal gaining traction among stakeholders involves implementing minimum staffing level requirements as mandated under legislation signed into law by former Governor Andrew M Cuomo back in 2021: specifically maintaining ratios equal to 3.5 hours daily care provided directly by certified nurse aides along with registered professional nurses/licensed practical nurses attending individual residents’ needs throughout each day.

The Role Families Can Play In Ensuring Loved Ones Receive Proper Care

Despite ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing regulatory frameworks governing operations within Long Island’s nursing home industry, families must remain vigilant about protecting loved ones placed inside these institutions from potential abuse or neglect scenarios arising due to lax oversight practices currently in place. By familiarizing themselves with residents’ rights, reporting any suspected violations promptly, and retaining legal counsel specializing in elder care law when appropriate, families can help ensure that nursing home operators are held accountable for providing the highest possible standard of care to their charges.

Contact Alonso Krangle LLP To Discuss Your Rights Or Those Of A Loved One

If you or a loved one has experienced substandard care or abuse within a Long Island nursing home located in Nassau County or Suffolk County, don’t hesitate to seek justice. The attorneys at Alonso Krangle LLP have extensive experience assisting clients in holding negligent facilities responsible for their actions.

Our team is dedicated to helping you pursue your rights—or those of a loved one—within the complex legal landscape surrounding eldercare issues. Reach out today by calling (800) 403-6191 for assistance from compassionate professionals who understand what it takes to secure a favorable outcome on behalf of vulnerable elderly individuals entrusted into another party’s care.

Source: Newsday https://www.newsday.com/news/health/nursing-home-state-inspections-2022-kgm0hoxk?

The Battle for Increased Nursing Home Accountability on Long Island

Nursing homes are entrusted with providing safe, compassionate care to our most vulnerable loved ones. However, a pattern of subpar care has emerged throughout the industry, particularly in Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island. As advocates, lawmakers, and industry experts work tirelessly to improve oversight and enforce stricter penalties against negligent nursing homes, families must also stay vigilant in protecting their loved ones’ rights.

In this post, we will explore the current state of nursing home oversight in New York State and across the country. We’ll discuss how these issues impact Long Island facilities specifically, as well as examine various efforts aimed at holding nursing homes accountable for providing high-quality care.

Current State of Nursing Home Oversight

Across the United States, nursing homes are subject to federal regulations set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as well as state-specific rules overseen by individual health departments. Unfortunately, many critics argue that both federal and state-level fines imposed on nursing homes fall short of adequately penalizing facilities that provide substandard care.

For instance, New York State ranks among the bottom fourth nationwide when it comes to imposing fines against nursing homes. With an average annual fine of only $9,700 per facility—including those not penalized at all—many operators view these minimal financial consequences as merely “the cost of doing business.”

Long Island’s Struggle with Nursing Home Quality

On Long Island specifically—home to 79 nursing homes in Nassau County and Suffolk County—20 facilities received a combined total of $144,250 in fines from the State Health Department in 2022. These penalties were imposed for various health and safety violations, including some deeply troubling incidents.

For example, two Long Island nursing homes were fined for failing to provide potentially lifesaving care to residents who staff mistakenly believed had “do not resuscitate” (DNR) orders. In both cases, these errors tragically led to the residents’ deaths. Another facility was fined after a certified nursing assistant sexually abused two residents.

Efforts to Improve Accountability

In response to these ongoing concerns about nursing home quality on Long Island and throughout New York State, advocates and lawmakers have called for increased oversight and stronger penalties. One such measure is a 2021 law establishing minimum staffing levels at nursing homes statewide. Under this law, facilities must maintain staffing levels equal to 3.5 hours of care per resident daily by a certified nurse aide, registered professional nurse, or licensed practical nurse.

Additionally, federal lawmakers like U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand have urged CMS to create minimum staffing standards for all U.S. nursing homes as part of broader efforts to improve accountability within the industry.

Your Call to Action: Protecting Your Loved Ones on Long Island

While progress is being made toward increasing accountability within the nursing home industry on Long Island and beyond, families must remain proactive in advocating for their loved ones’ rights.

If you suspect your family member has experienced abuse or neglect while residing at a Nassau County or Suffolk County nursing home—or if you simply want expert guidance navigating this complex landscape—contact our dedicated legal team at Alonso Krangle LLP today.

Our compassionate attorneys are well-versed in elder care law and will work tirelessly alongside you to seek justice for your loved one while advocating for improved oversight and accountability within the industry as a whole. Don’t wait to pursue your family member’s rights or protect their well-being; call (800) 403-6191 now for assistance.

Shining a Light on Sexual Abuse in Long Island Nursing Homes

As loved ones age and require additional care, many families place their trust in nursing homes throughout Long Island. Unfortunately, this trust is sometimes broken when vulnerable residents become victims of sexual abuse by staff members or other residents within these facilities. It’s essential for family members to be aware of the signs of sexual abuse, know the legal options available to them, and take action against those responsible for harming their loved ones.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss a recent incident at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center in Glen Cove as well as how you can recognize the signs of sexual abuse within nursing homes throughout Nassau County & Suffolk County. We’ll also explore the legal options available to victims and their families and what steps nursing homes can take to prevent such heinous acts from occurring.

The Disturbing Case at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center

In 2022, two residents at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center reported being sexually abused by a male certified nursing assistant (CNA) who allegedly inserted his finger into their rectums without consent during bed baths. One resident felt so ashamed by this violation that they cried uncontrollably during an interview with inspectors.

These shocking allegations resulted in a $10,000 fine for Glengariff Rehabilitation Center after investigators discovered that they “did not ensure residents’ rights were free from sexual abuse.” A criminal investigation is ongoing, but this case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting nursing home residents from abuse.

Recognizing the Signs of Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes

Sexual abuse is a deeply disturbing and traumatic experience for elderly nursing home residents, who are often unable to protect themselves or communicate their experiences to others. It’s crucial for family members and loved ones to be vigilant and recognize any warning signs of abuse:

• Unexplained injuries, such as bruises or abrasions near the genitals or breasts
• Sudden changes in behavior, including withdrawal or increased anxiety around certain staff members
• Reluctance to be undressed or touched during bathing or personal care
• Recurrent infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as nightmares or flashbacks

It’s important not only to monitor your loved one’s physical health but also their emotional well-being when visiting them at a nursing home in Long Island. Be open and receptive to any feelings they express regarding their treatment by staff members.

Legal Options Available for Victims and Their Families

In cases of sexual abuse within nursing homes throughout Nassau County & Suffolk County, victims and their families have legal options available to them. These may include filing a complaint with the New York State Department of Health, seeking civil remedies through a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party (such as the staff member involved), and working with law enforcement authorities during criminal investigations.

Taking these steps can help hold perpetrators accountable for their actions while also providing some measure of justice and compensation for victims who have suffered physical pain, emotional trauma, medical expenses related to treating injuries sustained from abuse.

Preventing Sexual Abuse in Long Island Nursing Homes: Steps Facilities Can Take

Nursing homes across Long Island have an ethical responsibility – and legal obligation –to ensure that residents are safe from all forms of abuse, including sexual abuse. Implementing the following strategies can help prevent incidents such as those that occurred at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center:

• Comprehensive background checks for all staff members prior to employment
• Ongoing training and education on recognizing and reporting abuse for staff
• Encouraging an open dialogue between residents, their families, and facility administrators
• Establishing a clear zero-tolerance policy for abuse that is communicated to both employees and residents

No elderly person should ever have to suffer from sexual abuse while residing in a Long Island nursing home facility.

Contact Alonso Krangle, LLP Today

If you suspect that your loved one has been sexually abused in a nursing home within Nassau County or Suffolk County, it’s crucial to act swiftly to protect their rights – and ensure justice is served against those responsible for causing them harm.

At Alonso Krangle, LLP, we’re dedicated to advocating on behalf of nursing home sexual abuse victims and their families. We understand the complex legal landscape surrounding these cases and will work tirelessly to pursue the compensation your family deserves.

Don’t wait – contact Alonso Krangle, LLP today at (800) 403-6191 for assistance with your loved one’s case or any related questions about pursuing their rights in a Long Island nursing home setting.

 

Source:

• Newsday
  https://www.newsday.com/news/health/nursing-home-state-inspections-2022-kgm0hoxk

The disturbing reality of sexual abuse in nursing homes is an issue that cannot be ignored. Families entrust the care of their loved ones to these facilities, expecting them to provide a safe and nurturing environment. Sadly, this is not always the case. In recent incidents on Long Island, nursing home residents in Nassau County and Suffolk County have been subjected to sexual abuse by staff members. In this blog post, we will discuss the warning signs of abuse, the legal options available to victims and their families, and the steps that nursing homes can take to prevent such incidents. If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse in a nursing home, don’t hesitate to contact the experienced lawyers at Alonso Krangle, LLP for assistance by calling (800) 403-6191.

Recognizing the Signs of Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes

Sexual abuse in nursing homes can be difficult to detect, as many victims may be unable or unwilling to communicate their experiences. However, there are warning signs that families should be aware of:

• Sudden changes in behavior: If your loved one becomes withdrawn, anxious, or fearful, this could be an indication of abuse.
• Unexplained physical injuries: Bruises, scratches, or other injuries in the genital area or on the inner thighs may be signs of sexual abuse.
• Torn, stained, or bloody clothing: Damaged clothing, especially underwear, can be an indicator of abuse.
• Infections or sexually transmitted diseases: If your loved one develops an unexplained infection or STD, this could be a sign of abuse.
• Reluctance to interact with certain staff members: If your loved one becomes visibly uncomfortable or anxious around specific caregivers, this could be a red flag.

Seeking Justice for Victims of Sexual Abuse in Long Island Nursing Homes

If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse in a nursing home in Nassau County or Suffolk County, it’s crucial to take immediate action:

• Report the incident: Speak with the nursing home administration and report your concerns. Additionally, contact the New York State Department of Health to file a complaint.
• Gather evidence: Document any signs of abuse, such as injuries or damaged clothing, and take photographs if possible. Speak with your loved one and any witnesses who may have information about the incident.
• Seek medical attention: Ensure that your loved one receives appropriate medical care and testing for any injuries or infections.
• Consult with an experienced lawyer: Contact the skilled attorneys at Alonso Krangle, LLP to discuss your legal options for pursuing justice on behalf of your loved one.

Preventing Sexual Abuse in Long Island Nursing Homes

Nursing home facilities in Nassau County and Suffolk County have a responsibility to protect their residents from abuse. To prevent sexual abuse, nursing homes should:

• Conduct thorough background checks and ongoing evaluations of all staff members.
• Implement comprehensive training programs to educate employees about identifying and preventing sexual abuse.
• Establish clear policies and procedures for reporting and addressing suspected abuse.
• Foster a culture of accountability and transparency, where residents and staff feel comfortable reporting concerns without fear of retaliation.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Loved One from Sexual Abuse in Long Island Nursing Homes

The experienced lawyers at Alonso Krangle, LLP are dedicated to helping families in Nassau County and Suffolk County pursue justice for their loved ones who have been victims of sexual abuse in nursing homes. Our compassionate and knowledgeable team will guide you through the complex legal process and fight for the compensation and accountability your family deserves.

If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse in a Long Island nursing home, don’t wait. Contact the experienced attorneys at Alonso Krangle, LLP today by calling (800) 403-6191 for a free consultation. We are here to help you protect the rights and well-being of your loved one.

As an attorney who has dedicated my practice to advocating for the rights of nursing home residents and their families, I have witnessed far too many cases of neglect and abuse. One particularly devastating situation occurs when nursing home staff misinterpret Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders, leading to tragic consequences for residents and their families. In this post, I will discuss the importance of proper communication and record-keeping in nursing homes and offer advice for families to ensure their loved ones’ wishes are respected.

DNR Orders: A Life and Death Decision

A DNR order is a legally binding directive that indicates a person’s desire not to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) in the event their heart stops or they stop breathing. These orders are often put in place for individuals with terminal illnesses, advanced age, or other conditions that make resuscitation unlikely to be successful or result in a meaningful quality of life.

The responsibility of nursing home staff to accurately interpret and follow these orders is of the utmost importance. Mistakes in this area can lead to the unnecessary loss of life, as was the case in two recent incidents at Long Island nursing homes in Nassau County and Suffolk County.

Tragic Mistakes at Cold Spring Hills and Central Island

In separate but similar incidents at Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Woodbury and Central Island Healthcare in Plainview, nursing home staff erroneously believed that residents who had stopped breathing had DNR orders in place. In both cases, the resident died as a result of the staff’s failure to initiate potentially lifesaving CPR.

These tragic incidents highlight the critical importance of proper communication and record-keeping in nursing homes. Staff must be adequately trained and vigilant in ensuring that they are aware of residents’ DNR status and that they accurately follow the orders in place. Nursing homes must also have clear and reliable systems for documenting and communicating this crucial information among staff members.

Protecting Your Loved One’s Wishes

To ensure that your loved one’s wishes are respected, there are several steps you can take:

1. Be proactive: When your loved one is admitted to a nursing home, make sure that their DNR status is clearly documented in their medical records and that all relevant staff members are aware of it.
2. Verify the accuracy of records: Periodically review your loved one’s medical records to ensure that their DNR status is accurately documented and that any changes in their wishes have been appropriately updated.
3. Educate yourself on the nursing home’s policies: Familiarize yourself with the nursing home’s policies and procedures for handling DNR orders, including how they are documented and communicated among staff members.
4. Advocate for your loved one: If you have concerns about how your loved one’s DNR status is being managed, do not hesitate to speak up and advocate for their rights.
5. Seek legal advice: If you suspect that your loved one’s DNR wishes have been ignored or misinterpreted, consult with an experienced nursing home attorney to discuss your options for pursuing justice.

Seek Help from Alonso Krangle, LLP

If you or a loved one has experienced the devastating consequences of a misinterpreted DNR order in a nursing home, you may be entitled to compensation. The attorneys at Alonso Krangle, LLP have extensive experience representing clients in nursing home abuse and neglect cases in Long Island, Nassau County, and Suffolk County.

Our compassionate and knowledgeable team is committed to holding nursing homes accountable for their actions and ensuring that your loved one’s rights are protected. Contact Alonso Krangle, LLP today at (800) 403-6191 for a free consultation and to discuss your case.

In recent news on Long Island, two heartbreaking incidents occurred at Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Woodbury, Nassau County, and Central Island Healthcare in Plainview, Suffolk County. Staff at both facilities misinterpreted “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) orders for two residents who stopped breathing, failing to provide potentially lifesaving care that ultimately led to their demise. These tragic cases highlight the importance of proper communication and record-keeping within nursing homes and raise concerns about the quality of care provided to our loved ones.

This blog post will delve into these incidents on Long Island, discuss the critical need for clear communication regarding DNR orders in nursing homes, offer advice for families to ensure their loved ones’ wishes are respected, and outline how Alonso Krangle, LLP can help you protect your family member’s rights and pursue justice.

The Cold Spring Hills and Central Island Incidents

At both Cold Spring Hills (Nassau County) and Central Island (Suffolk County), nurses mistakenly believed that residents who had stopped breathing had DNR orders in place due to administrative confusion surrounding wristbands they were wearing. In reality, neither resident had a DNR order. The failure to perform CPR contributed to both residents’ deaths.

These devastating incidents underscore the need for proper systems in place to ensure residents’ wishes regarding lifesaving care are clearly communicated and respected. Nursing home staff must be trained to understand the importance of DNR orders and the potential consequences of misinterpreting or failing to follow them.

The Importance of Clear Communication and Record-Keeping in Nursing Homes

Effective communication and accurate record-keeping are vital in nursing homes, particularly when it comes to residents’ medical directives like DNR orders. Misinterpretation or confusion surrounding these directives can lead to tragic outcomes, as seen in the Cold Spring Hills and Central Island cases.

To prevent such incidents, nursing homes should implement clear processes for documenting residents’ medical directives, including DNR orders. This may include standardized forms, color-coded wristbands, electronic medical records, etc., ensuring that staff can quickly and accurately determine a resident’s preferences.

Families can play a critical role in ensuring their loved ones’ wishes are respected by discussing their preferences with nursing home staff, reviewing medical records for accuracy, and following up on any concerns.

Holding Nursing Homes Accountable: The Role of Alonso Krangle, LLP

When nursing homes fail in their duty to provide quality care to residents or respect their healthcare choices as demonstrated through misinterpreted DNR orders, families have the right to pursue legal action. At Alonso Krangle, LLP, we understand the complex emotions involved when seeking justice for your loved one who has suffered due to nursing home negligence.

Our experienced attorneys will guide you through every step of the process while fighting tirelessly for your family’s rights. We serve clients across Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island and have an established track record of success representing families against negligent nursing homes.

Contact Alonso Krangle LLP Today

If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of negligence at a Long Island nursing home like Cold Spring Hills (Woodbury) or Central Island (Plainview), don’t hesitate to reach out to Alonso Krangle, LLP for assistance. By working together, we can hold the nursing home accountable and ensure that your family member’s rights and wishes are protected.

Contact us today at (800) 403-6191 to discuss your case and take the first step towards pursuing justice for your loved one in Nassau County or Suffolk County on Long Island.

When choosing a nursing home for our family members, we trust that they will be well taken care of and treated with dignity. Unfortunately, instances of abuse and neglect are all too common in nursing homes across Long Island, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. Understanding your loved one’s rights is crucial to ensure they receive proper care and to take action if you suspect any mistreatment.

In this blog post, we will discuss the rights of nursing home residents, federal and state regulations governing their care, how to recognize signs of abuse or neglect, and what steps you can take to protect your loved ones.

Nursing Home Resident Rights Under Federal Regulations

The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) oversees long-term care facilities that participate in Medicare or Medicaid programs. These facilities must adhere to certain federal regulations designed to ensure quality care for residents. The CMS has established a Residents’ Bill of Rights that includes:

1. Freedom from abuse, mistreatment, or neglect
2. Access to information about their medical condition
3. Participation in decisions regarding their treatment plan
4. Privacy in personal affairs
5. Confidentiality of medical records
6. Respectful treatment by staff members

New York State Regulations Protecting Nursing Home Residents

In addition to federal regulations, New York has its own set of rules governing nursing homes throughout the state, including those located on Long Island. The New York State Department of Health requires nursing homes to maintain a safe and sanitary environment, provide adequate staffing levels, and develop comprehensive care plans for residents.

Recognizing Signs of Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

It is important for family members to be vigilant in monitoring their loved one’s well-being while they are receiving care at a nursing home. Some common signs of abuse or neglect include:

1. Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or fractures
2. Bedsores or pressure ulcers
3. Poor hygiene or lack of proper grooming
4. Sudden changes in mood or behavior
5. Malnutrition or dehydration

If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to address your concerns with the nursing home staff and management immediately.

Taking Action to Protect Your Loved One

If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing abuse or neglect in a Long Island nursing home, it is crucial to take action quickly:

1. Speak up: Express your concerns directly with the facility’s staff and management.
2. Document evidence: Keep records of any incidents and conversations related to your concerns.
3. Report the issue: File a complaint with the New York State Department of Health if you believe that your loved one’s rights have been violated.
4. Seek legal help: Consult an experienced nursing home abuse attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that your loved one receives justice.

Alonso Krangle, LLP: Advocates for Victims of Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect on Long Island

At Alonso Krangle, LLP, we understand how devastating it can be when someone you love suffers from abuse or neglect in a nursing home setting. Our compassionate attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of victims and their families across Long Island, including Nassau County and Suffolk County.

If you believe that your loved one has been subjected to mistreatment in a nursing home on Long Island, don’t wait another moment – contact Alonso Krangle, LLP today. Our seasoned legal team will work tirelessly to pursue justice for your family member and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Don’t hesitate to call us at (800) 403-6191 for assistance in discussing your loved one’s situation and pursuing their rights. Remember, you are not alone – we’re here to help every step of the way.

As our loved ones age, we entrust their care to nursing homes with the expectation that they will be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect are all too common, with incidents ranging from medication errors to physical and sexual abuse. It is crucial for families to be informed about the rights of nursing home residents and their own rights, as well as the responsibilities of nursing homes in providing quality care. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of federal and state regulations, along with tips for families to recognize signs of abuse and neglect and take action to protect their loved ones.

Federal and State Regulations Related to Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing homes that participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs are required to comply with federal regulations that establish standards for resident care. These regulations, known as the Nursing Home Reform Act, were enacted in 1987 and outline the rights of residents, including the right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. In addition to federal regulations, each state has its own laws and regulations governing nursing homes.

In New York, the Department of Health is responsible for licensing and regulating nursing homes. The state has specific laws protecting nursing home residents, such as the Patients’ Bill of Rights, which outlines the rights of residents to be treated with dignity, respect, and privacy. Nursing homes are required to develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure the rights of residents are protected.

Recognizing Signs of Abuse and Neglect

Abuse and neglect can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial exploitation. It is essential for families to be aware of the warning signs, which may include:

• Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, fractures, or burns.
• Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, agitation, or fearfulness.
• Poor personal hygiene, unkempt appearance, or dirty living conditions.
• Unexplained weight loss, dehydration, or malnutrition.
• Frequent infections or pressure ulcers (bedsores).
• Missing personal belongings or unexplained financial transactions.

If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing abuse or neglect, it is crucial to take immediate action. Report your concerns to the nursing home administrator, the New York State Department of Health, and, if necessary, local law enforcement.

Taking Action to Protect Your Loved One in a Nursing Home on Long Island

In addition to recognizing signs of abuse and neglect, families can take proactive measures to ensure their loved ones receive quality care:

• Visit your loved one regularly and at different times of the day to assess the care they are receiving.
• Be involved in care planning meetings and ask questions about the care plan, staffing levels, and how concerns are addressed.
• Maintain open communication with the nursing home staff and develop relationships with the caregivers who interact with your loved one daily.
• Know your loved one’s rights and be prepared to advocate for them when necessary.

If You Suspect Your Family Has Been Abused, Contact Our New York Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers Today

If you believe that your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect in a nursing home, it is essential to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who specializes in nursing home abuse and neglect cases. At Alonso Krangle, LLP, our compassionate and knowledgeable legal team is dedicated to helping families pursue justice and protect the rights of their loved ones.

We understand the emotional and financial toll that nursing home abuse and neglect can have on families, and we are committed to holding nursing homes accountable for their actions. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and work tirelessly to ensure that your loved one receives the compensation they deserve for their pain and suffering.

Take Action Now to Protect Your Family

Nursing home abuse and neglect are devastating for families and their loved ones. By understanding the rights of nursing home residents, recognizing signs of abuse and neglect, and taking action to protect your loved one, you can help ensure their safety and well-being. If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, contact Alonso Krangle, LLP to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you pursue your rights and those of your loved one. Call us today at (800) 403-6191 for a free consultation.