1. It breaks my heart to see the care that my husband is receiving in the nursing home. What can I do?
Bring your concerns to the attention of the nursing home. Tell them that you are documenting your concerns about what you have seen and that you will report it. Be sure to follow up on your threat.

2. Who do I make a report to?
The State Department of Health in your area.

3. Is there a special format for reports or complaints?
No, but you should include all of the following information with your complaint:

Name, address, and telephone
Your relationship to the resident in the nursing home
The resident's full name and reason that he/she is in the home
Times and dates that you observed the problems
Names of staff who may be involved, including those that you have spoken to about your concerns
Any medical records relating to the abuse or an autopsy if death occurred

4. Should I contact an attorney about the situation?
If you are not getting satisfactory responses or action from the home, yes, you should contact an attorney at Epperly & Follis, P.C. immediately. We will investigate the situation in the nursing home and advise you on the laws surrounding the responsibilities of nursing homes.

5. What constitutes abuse or neglect?
Any of the following types of behavior on the part of the nursing home constitute abuse or neglect:

Improper diet
Abandonment
Willful desertion
Physical abuse of any kind
Failing to clean dressings or bed clothes
Bed sores from failing to turn the patient
Any other treatment that has, or could, result in physical harm, pain or mental suffering

6. How can I find a good nursing home?
Talk to any and everyone that you know, so that you can get a referral. Be sure to talk with the medical personnel (doctors, nurses, social workers, etc.) who were involved in the care of your loved one. Be sure, once you have the facilities narrowed, that you request inspection reports for your review. You can get the latest report from the nursing home director. Finally, be sure to visit the home and take note of the cleanliness, staff interactions with residents, activities available, complaints logged and number of staff on duty.