Causes For Wrongful Death in a California Nursing Home

 Posted on January 24, 2024 in Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one to someone else’s negligence is never easy. Unfortunately, nursing home residents are some of the most vulnerable individuals to wrongful death cases in the nation. They are susceptible to illnesses and injuries and are at risk of death due to neglect and abuse in the nursing home. Many different causes of wrongful deaths in elder nursing facilities could be easily prevented with the right training and care. If you have lost a loved one and plan to file a wrongful death lawsuit, a good lawyer can ensure you file correctly and will help safeguard your rights in the process.

Untrained or Insufficient Staff

3.2 hours of care per patient. This is the legal requirement of all California nursing homes for the residents each day. A nursing home is supposed to hire enough staff to support the number of patients they have in their care, but some still choose to refuse to follow this regulation. This then results in a lack of care and attention that residents are legally obligated to receive. Add to the possibility that not all staff are sufficiently trained to care for the patients and many problems can begin to arise.

Neglect

Negligence is the number one reason for wrongful deaths in a nursing facility. Almost every injury, illness, or wrongful death can be traced back to negligence by the staff. Negligence comes in many forms, such as:

• Medication mishaps (providing the wrong medication or wrong dose to patients, for example)

• Poor supervision

• Willful deprivation

• Various forms of elder abuse (i.e. physical, sexual, mental)

Each elderly resident in a nursing facility is owed a duty of care. When this duty of care is breached, the results can lead to injury, illness, or death.

Lack of Accident Prevention Measures

The inaction to prevent known potential accidents is also considered negligence. It is so common in the cause of wrongful deaths in elderly residents that it warrants attention in its own right. Something as simple as placing a sign deterring residents from walking in the area due to a spill or clutter could reduce the chance of a slip and fall injury from occurring.

Things such as dehydration can also be prevented with proper scheduling and observation. Maintaining clean premises is also a measure of care that can prevent more serious diseases and illnesses in the care facility, such as infections that can result from unclean catheters or living conditions. Ensuring residents take baths, halls are free from clutter, and all living areas are properly cleaned and disinfected can go a long way in preventing injuries and death.

Contact a Los Angeles County, CA Wrongful Death Attorney

A compassionate LA County, CA wrongful death and elder abuse lawyer can assess your claim, discuss your legal options, and help you navigate the legal process. Contact the Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C. at 818-242-8201 for a free consultation to discuss your case.