Albuquerque Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Placing a loved one in a nursing home is an act of trust. Families expect these facilities to provide compassionate care and a safe environment. Unfortunately, not all nursing homes meet these expectations. 

In New Mexico, vulnerable residents are often subjected to mistreatment, ranging from neglect and improper medical procedures to financial exploitation and emotional abuse. For those who suffer harm, the effects can be life-altering, leaving families searching for answers and justice.

Albuquerque nursing home abuse lawyers will investigate your case and help you obtain full and fair compensation. We have worked to hold nursing homes accountable for their actions in helping patients and their families receive just compensation. 

Do not weaken your claim by hesitating to talk to an attorney. Contact us for a Free Consultation at 505-226-3205.

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New Mexico's Nursing Home Injuries and Abuse Laws

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Nursing home injuries happen for many reasons, including abuse and neglect by nursing home staff or other residents. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse happens far too often throughout the nation, especially here in New Mexico. 

Nursing home abuse typically involves physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, or financial abuse by a member of the staff or another resident.

When a resident suffers an injury due to abuse or neglect, the resident could be entitled to file a personal injury claim and receive compensation for their injuries. Nursing home abuse is commonly the result of negligence on the part of the company that owns or operates the nursing home or its staff. 

For instance, nursing homes might be short-staffed or lacking proper training. The improperly trained nursing staff can administer improper medications and/or drop patients, causing severe injuries. 

Nursing home personal injury claims often require investigating a company's policies and procedures.

If your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect in their nursing home, contacting Gauthier & Maier Law Firm, P.C. should be the first step you take. 

Call us at 505-226-3205 to learn how we can help you and your loved one recover from this violation.

Common Injuries from Albuquerque Nursing Home Abuse

The type and severity of nursing home abuse or neglect injuries differ significantly based on the injured individual and the circumstances surrounding the situation. One of the most common types of nursing home injuries is bedsores, which typically develop when a resident is not moved for long. 

However, there are several other types of injuries associated with nursing home abuse, including:

  • Broken bones
  • Concussions or other head injuries
  • Bruising and lacerations
  • Burns
  • Malnutrition or dehydration
  • Overdose
  • Adverse reactions to medications
  • Injuries from sexual abuse
  • Death

It is also important to note that injuries do not always involve physical pain or harm. For instance, nursing home abuse could include financial exploitation in which the injury is purely financial for the items stolen from its patients. 

Additionally, a resident might sustain emotional injuries from nursing home abuse or neglect.

Warning Signs of Abuse or Neglect at a Nursing Home in New Mexico

The warning signs of abuse or neglect at a nursing home can be obvious in some situations, or very subtle in other cases. Some common signs of abuse or neglect may include a resident who:

  • Develops a fear of certain residents or employees
  • Has a dirty room, clothing. or other personal items
  • Has poor hygiene
  • Develops a change in their personality
  • Has an excessively hot or cold room
  • Seems overly anxious or fearful
  • Has injuries with no valid explanation
  • Loses their financial assets or personal property

It might be hard to believe that a loved one is being abused or neglected at a nursing home. But nursing home abuse happens, so it is important to understand the common warning signs and be willing to report potential abuse.

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect in New Mexico

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If you suspect your loved one is suffering from nursing home abuse or neglect, it is important to act quickly and seek help. Simply speaking with your loved one may not be sufficient because they might be afraid of repercussions if they disclose abuse to you.

Contacting Gauthier & Maier Law Firm, P.C., could help you better understand your options and investigate any claims of abuse or neglect. Additionally, most states have agencies tasked with handling nursing home abuse or neglect complaints and investigating any and all claims provided to them.

How a Lawyer Helps in Nursing Home Abuse Cases

When you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect, seeking legal help is crucial to protecting your loved one's rights and securing the compensation they deserve. Nursing home abuse lawyers bring the knowledge and resources to build a strong case, even in the most complex situations. 

Here's how a lawyer helps:

  • Investigating serious deficiencies: Lawyers review the nursing home's policies, procedures, and history to uncover systemic issues contributing to the abuse or neglect.
  • Gathering evidence: They collect medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to prove negligence or wrongful actions by staff members or the facility.
  • Calculating fair compensation: Lawyers assess the financial and emotional toll on the victim to determine the maximum compensation for medical care, personal property loss, or emotional abuse.
  • Filing legal action: Whether it's a claim against a nursing home facility or individual staff, lawyers prepare and file the necessary legal documents to hold the responsible parties accountable.
  • Collaborating with experts: Legal teams work with medical and industry professionals to testify about improper medical procedures, nursing home negligence, or unauthorized use of financial assets.

If your family member has been harmed in a healthcare facility, nursing home, or assisted living facility, working with an experienced lawyer ensures their rights are protected and they receive the justice they deserve.

Contact Gauthier & Maier Law Firm, P.C. at 505-226-3205 for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward protecting your loved one.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Home After Abuse: Protecting Your Loved One Moving Forward

Finding a safe and caring environment for your loved one after they’ve experienced abuse is a challenging but vital step. By carefully evaluating nursing homes and using available resources, you can ensure they receive the care they deserve. 

Here’s how you can make an informed decision:

  • Ask the right questions: Speak with staff members about their training, staffing ratios, and procedures for addressing serious deficiencies. Ask how they handle situations involving financial exploitation or physical harm.
  • Look for warning signs: During tours, check for issues like poor hygiene, dirty living facilities, or unexplained injuries among residents. Pay attention to whether residents appear happy and well-cared for.
  • Research the facility’s history: Use resources such as state health department records, Medicaid services reports, or online databases that track complaints and violations. Avoid facilities known for unauthorized use of resident property or serious neglect.
  • Visit frequently: Regular visits allow you to monitor your loved one's condition and ensure the facility maintains proper care once they are placed. Build relationships with staff to stay informed about your loved one’s well-being.
  • Consider assisted living facilities: If your loved one doesn’t need a nursing home, explore options that may provide a safer, more personalized environment.

By taking these steps, you safeguard your loved one’s health and dignity while reducing the chances of future abuse or neglect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Nursing Home Abuse in Albuquerque, New Mexico

What are the common causes of nursing home abuse or neglect?

Nursing home abuse or neglect is often the result of:

  • Understaffed facilities
  • Improperly trained staff
  • Negligent hiring practices
  • Poor supervision of employees
  • Inadequate safety protocols

Who can file a nursing home abuse claim?

A nursing home resident who has suffered abuse or neglect may file a claim. If the resident cannot do so, a legal guardian or family member can pursue the claim on their behalf.

What compensation is available in nursing home abuse cases?

Compensation might cover:

  • Medical expenses
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of personal property or financial assets
  • Funeral and burial costs in wrongful death cases

How do I report nursing home abuse in New Mexico?

You can report nursing home abuse by:

  • Contacting Adult Protective Services in New Mexico
  • Reporting to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program
  • Speaking with an Albuquerque nursing home abuse lawyer for legal assistance

What should I do if I notice signs of abuse or neglect?

Take these steps:

  1. Document any visible injuries, environmental issues, or changes in behavior.
  2. Speak with nursing home staff or management to express your concerns.
  3. Contact an attorney to help investigate and protect your loved one's rights.

Are there time limits for filing a nursing home abuse lawsuit in New Mexico?

Yes, New Mexico has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including nursing home abuse claims. It's important to act quickly to preserve your legal rights. Consult a lawyer to understand specific deadlines for your case.

How do I choose the right lawyer for a nursing home abuse case?

Look for a lawyer who:

  • Has experience with nursing home abuse and neglect claims
  • Understands the laws specific to New Mexico
  • Is prepared to handle the complexities of these cases, such as hiring medical experts and conducting in-depth investigations

What makes nursing home abuse cases so complex?

These cases involve intricate legal, medical, and procedural issues, including:

  • Proving liability against the facility or staff
  • Securing expert testimony to demonstrate negligence or abuse
  • Conducting extensive investigations into policies, procedures, and staffing

Can nursing home staff be held individually liable?

Yes, individual staff members may be held liable if their actions directly caused harm. In some cases, the nursing home facility itself can also be held accountable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision. 

What are the first steps to take if my loved one has suffered abuse?

Start by:

  1. Removing them from immediate danger, if possible.
  2. Documenting injuries or signs of neglect.
  3. Consulting with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney to explore your legal options.

Albuquerque Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer, Chance Gauthier

For personalized advice or to discuss your case, contact Gauthier & Maier Law Firm, P.C. at 505-226-3205 for a free consultation.

If you're looking for guidance, an experienced Albuquerque personal injury lawyer from our team can help you navigate your legal options and protect your loved one's rights. It is important to take action as soon as possible if you suspect any type of nursing home abuse or neglect to prevent it from escalating. 

Call us at 505-226-3205 to schedule a Free Consultation today.