Recognizing Poor Hygiene as a Sign of Nursing Home Abuse: Advice from a Local Attorney
Nursing homes have both an ethical and legal obligation to maintain good hygiene for all residents. Despite this fact, many fail to do so. If you feel that your loved one is not receiving proper care, a Florida nursing home lawyer can advise you regarding how to proceed.
The Dangers of Poor Hygiene
Your Florida nursing home attorney can explain that contagious disease is a major problem in nursing homes, due to many factors, which include:
- The communal living of a group of people.
- The residents most likely have diminished immune systems.
- Elderly individuals are particularly susceptible to respiratory problems. Even a common cold can develop into a serious infection.
- Many nursing home residents are primarily or completely dependent on the nursing home staff for personal hygiene needs.
A Florida Nursing Home Attorney Explains Why Poor Hygiene Is Such a Problem
An experienced Florida nursing home lawyer will explain that generally, poor hygiene is caused by two major issues:
- Insufficient number of nursing home staff
- Improper training of nursing home staff
The Impact on the Resident
Aside from the very real and serious physical health risks posed by a lack of good hygiene, this lack of care can also lead to a lack of self-respect and dignity in the individual. Your Florida nursing home lawyer understands how important this is to the overall health and well-being of any person.
A Florida Nursing Home Lawyer on the Signs of Poor Hygiene
When you visit your loved one, be very observant and look carefully for such things as:
- Unpleasant body odor
- Dirty clothing
- Inappropriate clothing
- Unkempt appearance (e.g., long or dirty hair, uncut finger nails or toe nails)
Contact a Florida Nursing Home Attorney for Legal Guidance
Do not make the mistake of thinking that a lack of good hygiene is a minor issue. Without question, not only can it lead to serious health concerns, but it may be a sign of other forms of abuse. Your loved one has rights, and it is your job to protect them. Call a Florida nursing home lawyer by contacting Peter Giroux at (727) 895-5399 for information regarding any nursing home abuse questions.