What should I do if I suspect a loved one has been abused in a nursing home?

If you suspect that a loved one has been abused in a nursing home, it is important to take action immediately. You should contact the Washington Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and report your suspicions. The DSHS can investigate reports of suspected abuse in nursing homes and take the appropriate course of action. Additionally, you should contact your loved one’s primary care physician and inform them of your suspicions. If the physician confirms the abuse, they may be able to provide further assistance. It is also important to document any evidence of abuse. This includes taking pictures of any physical evidence, such as bruises or cuts, and recording dates and times that you observe any evidence of abuse. It is also important to keep any documentation of conversations with nursing home staff or other relevant individuals. Finally, you should contact a lawyer that specializes in nursing home abuse law. A lawyer can review the evidence you have documented and help you navigate the legal process. They can also provide additional guidance on how to handle the situation. It is important to take action if you suspect that a loved one has been abused in a nursing home. By taking the appropriate steps, you can ensure that your loved one is protected and that justice is served.

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