The Link Between Medication Mismanagement and Nursing Home Abuse

In nursing homes, the management of residents’ medication is a crucial component of daily care. These facilities serve as a safe haven for some of the most vulnerable members of our society, many of whom rely on various medications to maintain their health and quality of life. 

The proper handling of these drugs directly impacts residents’ well-being, making it essential for these facilities to uphold the highest standards of care. Unfortunately, not all of them do—and when medication mismanagement occurs, it can be a red flag for abuse.

A Milwaukee nursing home abuse lawyer can help families understand their legal options and pursue justice when negligent medication practices result in harm.

Nursing Homes Are Expected to Provide Medications to Residents

Nursing homes are expected to perform at a certain standard when taking care of elderly residents. This standard encompasses many responsibilities, including the accurate administration of medications. Staff members are expected to provide residents’ medications on time and as needed, as well as:

• Adhering to medication safety standards
• Communicating with families about new prescriptions
• Monitoring each resident’s medication regimen
• Responding promptly to any medication side effects
• Reviewing the medical history of residents under their care

While it is impossible to eliminate medication errors completely, nursing homes must take all possible precautions to minimize these risks. However, despite these expectations, some facilities fail to fulfill their obligations to provide a high standard of care.

Medication Errors Can Be a Sign of Abusive Conditions in Nursing Homes

In nursing homes, the consequences of medication mismanagement can be severe. Negligent staff members may provide incorrect dosages, administer the wrong drug, or fail to provide necessary medication at all. 

These errors can result in adverse health outcomes for residents, ranging from temporary discomfort to severe health complications or even death. For residents who require medication to manage chronic conditions, mismanagement can lead to the deterioration of their health, diminishing their quality of life. 

Moreover, medication errors can signal deeper issues within a nursing home, including neglect or abuse. When a facility fails to manage medications correctly, it may indicate a lack of attention to residents’ needs and a disregard for their well-being. These conditions can foster an environment where neglect and abuse are more likely to occur, further endangering residents. 

Hold Nursing Homes Accountable for Medication Mismanagement

Recognizing the signs of medication errors can be the first step in identifying potentially abusive or neglectful situations. If you suspect that a loved one has suffered due to medication mismanagement in a nursing home, it is important to act quickly. Get medical attention as soon as possible and save all records that are related to the error, such as medical and prescription records. 

You can also report the abuse to the Wisconsin Division of Quality Assurance or call 911 if there is immediate danger or a life-threatening situation. Then, consider reaching out to a Milwaukee nursing home abuse attorney to explore your legal options.

If the medication mismanagement caused harm to you or a loved one, you have the right to pursue a lawsuit against the facility and any responsible staff members. A Milwaukee personal injury attorney can help you understand what to expect during this process and initiate your claim for compensation. Contact us to schedule a free consultation as soon as possible to learn more about your next steps and start your claim.