September 1999
If you are a patient of a nursing home you have protections for safe and proper care under federal and state law. If you are receiving poor care or abuse, ask for a care conference with through the nursing home administrative office. The facility is required to provide help to residents to "attain or maintain the highest practicable, physical, mental and psychological well being." Tell-tale signs of a possible problem include when physical restraints are used and there is the appearance of bed sores.
- Use of Physical Restraints-- Freedom from chemical and physical restraints, unless they are authorized by a physician for a limited period of time to protect you or others from injury.
- Bed Sores-- If they appear they may indicate inadequate food and fluid, not keep resident in clean condition.
Furthermore, slip and falls at the facility due to improper maintenance, improper medical treatment which may constitute malpractice are rights all protected by New Jersey tort law.