CHICAGO, IL – Many nursing home residents rely on staff members to help them with the consistent care they need. Nursing home staff members help residents bathe, feed them, help with administering medication, treat injuries, and transfer residents from their wheelchair to bed. Another key responsibility of nursing home staff includes to maintain a clean, sanitary environment for residents to live in. When staff members fail to maintain a clean facility, sanitize equipment, and help residents with hygiene-related needs, these may be signs of nursing home neglect.
Unsanitary Equipment in Nursing Homes Can Lead to Infection and Illness
With COVID surging nursing home facilities, staff members must be precautious to prevent infection outbreaks to keep residents safe. Since many nursing home residents’ bodies are weakened by age and/or disability, exposure to any virus, fungi, bacteria, or other pathogens can be deadly. Nursing homes should be regularly cleaned and sanitized to avoid these types of outbreaks in facilities, including cleaning wheelchairs, shared equipment, and other common places.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), kitchens must be properly cleaned and sanitized, and all kitchen staff must be trained and certified in safe food handling to prevent the spread of illnesses. For example, if bathroom showers, toilets, or sinks are not regularly cleaned, it can become a haven for bacteria and germs to grow that can cause residents to become ill.
- Colds
- Bed sores
- Flu
- Bed bugs
- Infections, such as bacterial pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and influenza
- Diarrhea, which can sometimes develop into a chronic problem
- Athletes foot
- Scabies
- Ringworm
- Lice
- Psychological damage, such as depression and reduced quality of life
Proper Resident Hygiene is Essential for Physical and Mental Health
Nursing home staff has the responsibility to keep residents clean and hygienic, as many residents are unable to use the restroom, bathe, or dress without the assistance of staff. Some residents may rely on adult diapers. If staff members fail to regularly change residents’ soiled diapers, clothing, or bed sheets, infections and medical complications can occur.
Bed sores are another common and major concern in nursing home facilities. If a resident develops a bed sore and it is not cleaned and regularly maintained, the wound may become more infected and even develop into a deadly condition called sepsis. The Mayo Clinic suggests to regularly clean and dress bed sores to prevent further infection.
Contact a Nursing Home Negligence Attorney in Cook County, Illinois
Nursing home residents are often unable to stand up for themselves when forced to live in unsanitary living conditions, or suffer from other forms of nursing home abuse. Many residents rely on family members to watch for signs of poor hygiene or advocate for them when they see they are not receiving the care they rightfully deserve. If you believe your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, call us today at (312) 384-1920 to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled nursing home abuse attorneys. We know when our clients are being mistreated and living in unsanitary living conditions and are committed to bringing your loved one the justice they deserve. Please visit our website for more information.
