Advocating for a loved one in a nursing home is a responsibility that often comes with its unique set of challenges. One of the most potent tools you can wield in this role is knowledge. In this blog, we will delve into why knowledge is so crucial in advocating for your loved one’s well-being and how you can harness it effectively.
The Knowledge Gap
As a nursing home abuse attorney for 26 years, I have sat across from many families. I usually begin by trying to get a complete medical history of the resident so I ask the family about medications, physicians and diagnoses. So often they stare back at me blankly and tell me that the information “should be in the records”. It’s obvious that they have been in the dark on critical issues pertaining to their loved ones. This can create an incredibly dangerous situation.
Know What Matters
It’s paramount that you know and understand your loved one’s medical conditions, the medications they are prescribed, and who prescribed them. Nursing home care involves various healthcare professionals, and they may not always be on the same page. Physicians may not be aware of what other physicians are doing once a resident is in a nursing home. It falls upon you, the advocate, to bridge this knowledge gap.
The Imbalance of Knowledge
In the world of nursing home care, there often exists an imbalance of knowledge. The nursing home staff knows the intricacies of their operation, while family members may be largely in the dark. This knowledge disparity can leave families feeling powerless and uncertain about how to advocate effectively for their loved ones.
How Knowledge Empowers You
To be an effective advocate, you must strive to gain knowledge about several critical aspects of nursing home care. These include:
- Facility Information: Familiarize yourself with the nursing home’s history, including any past inspection issues or deficiencies. Knowing the facility’s strengths and weaknesses can help you advocate more effectively.
- Understanding the Nursing Process: Learn about the nursing care process within the facility. Understanding how care is provided will enable you to better monitor and advocate for your loved one’s well-being.
- Resident Preferences: Know your loved one’s preferences such as meal choices, daily routines, and activities they enjoy.
- Medical History: Familiarize yourself with your loved one’s medical history, including any chronic conditions, allergies, and past surgeries.
- Healthcare Providers: Identify all the healthcare providers involved in your loved one’s care, including physicians, specialists, and therapists.
- Care Plan, Medications, and Treatments: Understand your loved one’s care plan, including prescribed medications and treatments. This knowledge ensures that nothing falls through the cracks.
- Facility Staff: Know the staff members working in the facility by name, their roles, and how they are involved in your loved one’s care.
- Resident’s Rights: Understand your loved one’s rights as a nursing home resident. Knowledge of their rights empowers you to advocate effectively.
- Enforcement of Rights: Learn how to enforce your loved one’s rights if they are not being upheld by the nursing home.
- Access to Records: Know how to obtain your loved one’s medical records and review them regularly.
Knowledge is Power
In the realm of nursing home advocacy, knowledge is your most potent weapon. By gaining a deep understanding of your loved one’s medical history, the nursing home’s operations, and the rights of residents, you position yourself as a powerful advocate. This knowledge not only empowers you but also ensures that your loved one receives the best possible care. In a world of limited resources, being a knowledgeable advocate can make all the difference in securing the well-being of your loved one in a nursing home.
At Williams DeLoatche, P.C., we know nursing home advocacy. If you or a loved one has experienced nursing home abuse, we are here to provide compassionate and expert legal support. Call us at 757-547-5555 for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.