Bruises

Bruises may be a telltale sign of nursing home physical abuse. Granted, nursing home patients are more prone to falls that lead to bruising, and their delicate, thinner skin lends itself to bruising easily. In addition, sometimes medications cause easy bruising. But, it’s important for family, friends, and visitors to take note of bruising in nursing homes and try to discern whether or not it appears suspicious in nature, whether it’s a frequent occurrence or there seems to be a pattern, or anything else is strikingly out of the ordinary.

If other signs of abuse are present with the bruising, including signs of anxiety, change in demeanor, frightening easily, as well as other physical cues, ask your loved one about it and see if nursing home staff reports concur. Take note as to whether staff members seem willing to help provide information, or if they seem reluctant to discuss your concerns regarding the injuries. It is also helpful to document such occurrences for future reference.

If you suspect a loved one has been a victim of nursing home physical abuse, a nursing home abuse lawyer can offer expertise in asking the appropriate questions and taking action to ensuring that any abuse that may be occurring will stop, and the parties at fault are brought to justice.