Poor Hygiene in Nursing Homes
Our law firm takes legal action against nursing home neglect
In a nursing home, residents depend on staff to care for them and fulfill all basic needs, including hygiene. Although essential for their well-being, hygienic needs are often neglected. Poor hygiene affects not only the physical well-being of your loved one but also their dignity and mental health.
Although it may not be viewed as severe as falls, choking, or other types of physical nursing home abuse, we take poor hygiene cases seriously at Hal Waldman & Associates. Protect your loved one and contact us to see how an experienced Pittsburgh nursing home neglect lawyer can help.
The importance of proper hygiene
Practicing and maintaining proper hygiene for all residents is essential. With many residents facing existing health issues, it becomes even more crucial for staff members to provide care. Regular bathing, oral care, and maintaining clean living spaces are all essential for your loved one’s well-being. Good hygiene practices can also influence more positive social experiences among residents.
Causes of poor hygiene
Poor hygiene is often a direct result of nursing home abuse and neglect. A key factor is understaffing. Without the number of staff needed, as well as qualified staff, the hygienic needs of residents are neglected. When nursing home staff have too many tasks to do in a short time, they may rush and forget important things, which can affect residents' well-being.
Risks and signs of poor hygiene
Poor hygiene is a serious issue in nursing homes that jeopardizes residents’ health. Neglecting personal cleanliness and living conditions can lead to discomfort, skin infections, and other physical and mental health problems. Serious health complications, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), can directly result from poor hygiene.
Warning signs include:
- Strong body odor
- Signs of neglected dental hygiene, such as bad breath
- Unkept appearance such as greasy hair, dirty clothes, dirty nails
- Skin issues such as infections, rashes, or bedsores.
- Eye crusting
- Unchanged adult diapers
- Withdrawn behavior
Signs to look out for in the facility include:
- Filthy bathrooms with stains on toilets, showers and floors
- Dirt and mold in living spaces
- Stained bedding
- Clutter and dust
Prioritize the well-being of your loved one
At Hal Waldman & Associates, we know how vulnerable nursing home residents are. Poor hygiene and other nursing home neglect cases should never be taken lightly. The bottom line is there is no excuse for poor hygiene conditions in nursing homes. That's why we are committed to prioritizing the well-being of your loved one and protecting their overall well-being.
If your loved one has suffered from an illness related to nursing home neglect, contact us today for a free consultation. We are available to hear from you 24/7 with guaranteed same-day callbacks.
