Steps if Improper Nursing Home Maintenance Caused Injury

Nursing homes in Florida, and across the country, are expected to act as a secure and safe haven for our aging loved ones. Still, improper maintenance issues can cause accidents that result in serious injuries. If someone you love has been hurt due to improper nursing home maintenance, it is important to take immediate action that will protect their well-being and seek the appropriate legal remedies. Below, our Tampa unsanitary conditions attorneys explain the steps to take.

Seek Medical Attention for Your Loved One

 Your loved one’s safety and well-being are the most important priority after any injury. Make sure they receive the immediate medical attention they need either through emergency medical care if their injuries are severe, or by contacting their primary medical provider if they have suffered minor injuries. Keep all medical documentation including any diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Not only will this ensure your loved one’s well-being but it will also help with any future legal action you take.

Ask for an Accident Report 

The nursing home will write an accident report after any incident and it is important to ask for a copy of this report. It is critical to maintain an accurate record of all communications with the nursing home when you ask for the written report. This is particularly important if your loved one’s injuries were caused by improper maintenance.

Collect Evidence 

Take pictures of the maintenance issue that caused the accident, if possible. Common maintenance issues in nursing homes include loose floorboards, broken handrails, and faulty lighting. Take note of the time and date of the accident, as well as the names of witnesses or staff members who saw the incident. Keep any documentation of correspondence or conversations related to the accident, such as text or email messages between you and the nursing home administration.

Report the Nursing Home

 All nursing home complaints should be reported to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, including those related to improper maintenance. Provide them with as many details as possible, including any documents related to the incident, any correspondence between you and the nursing home, and all medical records. The agency will conduct an investigation and take appropriate action against the nursing home.

Consider Relocating Your Loved One 

If you feel as though your loved one’s safety is in immediate jeopardy, you should consider relocating them to another facility. Before choosing another nursing home, research their reputation, the quality of the care they provide, and the safety precautions they take. Also ask about staff training and maintenance practices. This can help reassure you that your loved one will get the proper care they need.

Call Our Unsanitary Conditions Attorneys in Tampa Today 

If your loved one has been hurt by improper maintenance in a nursing home, you can take legal action. At Kohn Law, our Tampa unsanitary conditions attorneys can help you take the appropriate legal action to recover your loved one’s medical expenses, damages for pain and suffering, and more. Call us now at 813-428-8504 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

ahca.myflorida.com/health-quality-assurance/bureau-of-field-operations/complaint-administration-unit#:~:text=If you wish to file, Health Care Facility Complaint Form.