What is nursing home abuse?

Nursing home abuse is any non-accidental physical, sexual, psychological, and/or financial abuse of a resident in a nursing home or similar long-term care facility. This type of abuse may include physical abuse, such as hitting, slapping, or improper use of restraints; sexual abuse, such as inappropriate touching, sexual assault, or sexual exploitation; emotional abuse, such as humiliation, verbal threats, or intimidation; and financial exploitation, such as unauthorized use of money or property. In South Carolina, nursing home abuse is illegal. The South Carolina Abuse and Neglect Registry is a state-wide, centrally maintained database that serves as a reference tool for nursing home abuse investigation and prosecution. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) investigates complaints of abuse and neglect in long-term care facilities and maintains the registry, which includes offenses ranging from verbal abuse to sexual abuse. Any person who suspects that a nursing home resident is being abused is encouraged to contact law enforcement, Adult Protective Services, or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. It is important to be aware that all nursing home staff are mandated by laws and regulations to report any suspected abuse, and failure to do so may result in sanctions and removal from their job. Nursing home staff must take every allegation seriously, and it is the responsibility of administrators and staff to create an environment where residents can feel safe and protected.

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What is nursing home abuse?

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