Recent news reports have highlighted the deplorable conditions faced by Oklahoma nursing home patients due to understaffing. In one egregious case, a FOX 23 news investigative report uncovered frequently occurring incidents of abuse and negligence at an understaffed nursing home in the Tulsa area.
The news report states that at one point during their investigation, there were only two aides responsible for 76 patients. Residents were left in their own feces because there was not enough staff to provide adequate care and support. In these types of conditions, the skin of the victims can break down, bedsores can develop, and the patient could even die. State officials are currently investigating the nursing facility.
The extent of the problem in Oklahoma regarding nursing homes with inadequate staff numbers is not yet known. Under Oklahoma law, all nursing homes must have one direct-care staff member for every seven residents between 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is the responsibility of all nursing homes to provide adequate and reasonable care to its patients and residents. Providing the right amount of staffing is an important part of this legal responsibility. Patients who are neglected may develop life-threatening infections, dehydration, and other serious medical conditions.
There are steps you can take if you are concerned about the level of care your loved one is receiving at a nursing facility. You should first discuss your concerns with the nursing home management. If changes are not made, you may want to contact your local ombudsman or file a complaint with the Department of Health.
If your concerns include abuse, you should immediately call the authorities. Document your concerns, take photos of injuries, and keep record of the communications you have had with the facility regarding your concerns. You may be able to hold the at-fault nursing home accountable for their actions and prevent future incidents from occurring. Contact an experienced Oklahoma nursing home abuse lawyer who will provide you with the support and counsel you need every step of the way.
