Any info in dealing with this would be appreciated.The involved family fears the NH will further neglect the client as it will be obvious that its family that filed concerns.They fear reporting for fear of reprisal and or a lack of assistance for the family member. Thanks!
What are the specific concerns downerdebbie? What actual proof do you have of occurrences; do you have names, dates, and witnesses to occurrences? As an ombudsman I have access to a Legal Dept. should actual charges be supported.
Pamstegma is correct; on hospice, no other health issue is addressed, just pain. But not treating open sores, even for pain relief, seems inhumane. What you should do is call the state and report the abuse. My state (NY) has a nursing home abuse hotline. Ask your ombudsman for the number to yours. The person from the state will come in, examine the patient, and ask questions. The person from the state can assess fees and penalties, up to and including forcing the nursing home to close (there are 4 or 5 levels of penalties for NHs that don't comply with the mandated standard of care). I think this is a good move.
Personally, I was terrified to "report" my mom's nursing home because they were such bullies. I was afraid of retribution. The people who I had seen make waves either had their loved ones kicked out or terribly neglected, in one case to death (R.I.P. Annette Giordano). However, my husband called the state behind my back, and the result was positive! A real improvement in her care.
Schoolyard lesson: a bully can be silenced by a bigger bully. The state is a bigger bully. Good luck, and I'm so sorry.
The neglect went on for over 3 months.sounds like it gets brushed under the rug once the nursing home calls hospice.also sounds like she's stuck with the crappy care......is there any point in using an ombudsman other than having a 25 yr old teach a caregiver of many years explain what dementia is.An ice cold peppy nurse who discussed all other meds but dismissed her ailments.doesn't a care plan discuss sores etc? You seem a fine ombudsman but it sounds like most could care less, and doubt I can get any help w/o the paper or tv if ombudsman just go around letting people know they aren't good enough for humane treatment. Hope there's more dedication than what I've encountered.
As far as a denied med, the nurse cannot discuss meds unless you have the HIPAA clearance. Your first concern is clearing your name. Get an attorney.
Thank you!!
When I sign in at the front desk, I tell the receptionist who I am coming to see. She alerts the Director and things start to roll immediately.