Leaving an elderly loved one in the care of a nursing home is never easy, and for North Carolina families who are looking for a facility that will provide suitable care, it might be a daunting challenge. Not knowing what type of personal injury their loved ones might suffer when they are not present could cause concern, especially with frequent reports of elder abuse in the media. One example of such a case recently led to charges being filed against a nurse’s assistant in another state.
According to court documents, a 27-year-old nursing home employee was responsible for moving elderly patients and residents to and from the dining hall and also the showers. It is alleged that the nurse’s assistant caused a 96-year-old woman severe injuries when he dropped her while he moved her from the bed onto a wheelchair. Further allegations state that the man lifted the patient from where she was on her knees on the floor. He then put her in the wheelchair and failed to report the incident.
According to deputies, the nurse’s assistant was aware of the pain the patient suffered but chose to remain quiet about the incident. The patient’s continued complaints about pain led to her having X-rays three days after the fall. The results indicated that she had suffered two fractured femurs. Reportedly, the nurse’s assistant said he feared losing his job. He is awaiting a pretrial hearing.
While the outcome of this case is not known, any family in North Carolina who knows or suspects the abuse or neglect of a loved one in a nursing home can take immediate steps. An experienced personal injury attorney can assess the circumstances and concerns of the family and explain the legal options. If there are grounds for a civil lawsuit, the lawyer can provide the necessary support and guidance every step along the way.
