Unsanitary conditions in a long-term care facility are a type of nursing home neglect, putting the safety, health, and welfare of residents in danger. Any medical setting has an increased number of germs. However, it is especially concerning in nursing homes because seniors often have compromised immune systems that can't easily or effectively fend off illness. The guide below explores what you should know about nursing home hygiene: what it involves, signs of irresponsibility, and what to do if you suspect it.

Duties

A nursing facility has a legal obligation to meet certain standards of both environmental and personal hygiene. In general, all rooms must be clean and sanitary. Food service areas must meet the guidelines established by the local health department and service workers must follow safe food-handling protocols. Residents should be routinely bathed and their grooming needs tended to. Bandages, diapers, and clothing require changing regularly and wounds, sores, or bruises must be treated to avoid infections and complications.

Signs of Nursing Home Neglect

If you have a loved one in a long-term care facility, always be mindful of signs of nursing home neglect. Environmental red flags can include visibly dirty or unhygienic areas, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and community spaces. Spills and messes that are not promptly or adequately cleaned up are also causes of concern. Also, pay attention to consistently foul odors, such as moldy or musty smells that go beyond the usual bodily scents. Signs of personal hygiene neglect include bedsores, rashes, infections, unclean teeth or failing dental health, or residents wearing the same clothes day after day.

What to Do

If you see signs of nursing home neglect, report it to an onsite manager or supervisor right away. If the issue isn't resolved, bring the matter to your local or state Department of Health. At this point, consider bringing in the services of an attorney. A lawyer can advocate for the best interests of the resident while working to ensure the nursing home follows the mandated rules and regulations. If the neglect resulted in health issues for your loved one, a lawsuit could also help you pursue compensation.

If you believe an elderly loved one has been mistreated, turn to Reed Law Offices for help. Attorney Shayla Reed serves clients throughout the Douglas County, NE, region. As the only law firm in Nebraska dedicated to nursing home neglect and abuse issues, she has the focus, skill, and experience to stand up for your rights and the rights of your loved one. Call (402) 933-0588 or visit her office's website to schedule a free consultation.