Nursing Home Residents’ Rights
The Nursing Home Reform Act is a federal law, enforced in Florida and all states, that establishes a standard of care and certain rights for the residents of nursing homes. The goal of the NHRA is to reduce the prevalence of nursing home abuse and neglect and protect residents. Nursing homes are required to provide all residents with regular evaluations, complete care plans, social services, nursing services, rehabilitation, pharmaceutical services, dietary services, and a full-time social worker. The NHRA affords residents in nursing homes a number of rights, including the right to:
Dignity, Respect, and Freedom
Nursing home residents must be treated with dignity and respect at all times. They should be free from emotional and physical abuse and neglect. They should not be subjected to physical or chemical restraint, involuntary seclusion, or corporal punishment.
Voice any Grievances
Nursing home residents should be able to file complaints or voice any grievances they may have without the fear of retaliation or discrimination. They also have the right to have those grievances addressed in a prompt manner. Residents should be able to file complaints with the Florida Long-term Care Ombudsman without the fear of retribution.
Privacy
Nursing home residents have the right to private, unrestricted communication with anyone they choose, especially with regard to their medical treatment and personal or financial matters. Residents should have access to a private telephone.
Make Their Own Decisions
Nursing home residents have the right to be informed about and make choices about their own medical care and medication. They have the right to choose their own physician. They also have the right to control their own financial decisions. Nursing home residents can also decide if they want to be discharged from the home.
Visits
Nursing home residents must be allowed to have visits from family, friends, and other parties such as doctors and/or representatives from the state ombudsman. Additionally, residents have the right to refuse any visitors.
If you believe you or your loved one’s rights have been violated in a nursing home, it could be a sign that abuse or neglect is taking place. If that is the case, you should consult with an attorney.
Contact a Trusted Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a nursing home, you should consult with an experienced South/Central Florida personal injury law firm. Contact the trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule your free consultation.