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Physical Assault of Nursing Home Residents

 

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Physical Assault of Nursing Home Residents

Physical Abuse

Nursing home residents are protected from physical assault under the law. However, this right may be violated by nursing home staff members or another resident. Physical assault in nursing homes is defined as the intentional use of physical force that may result in bodily injury or pain. This includes hitting, kicking, shaking, shoving, pinching, beating or burning. The injuries that a nursing home resident may suffer as a result of physical assault can be very serious and include broken bones, head injuries, and lacerations.

Nursing home physical assault can be difficult to detect in some cases. Bruises, cuts, and other signs of physical assault can be hidden by clothing. Even broken bones may not be easily noticed on a resident who is bedridden. In addition, the patient may not be able to communicate what he or she has experienced.  If the injuries are noticed, the nursing home staff may try to explain them away by claiming that the victim had fallen. Other times, the physical assault may not leave outward signs, but the resident may become fearful of a certain employee or become more reclusive. Any serious physical injury requiring emergency treatment or hospitalization can be a sign that physical assault has taken place. If you feel that your loved one may have been victimized, it is important to act quickly in order to protect his or her future safety.


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