Families place trust in nursing homes to care for their loved ones. Unfortunately, when facilities hire staff without the right experience or training, that trust can be broken.
Abuse and neglect are far more likely when employees are unqualified or unprepared for the demands of caregiving. That’s why nursing home staff must be thoroughly vetted and properly trained.
Training is more than a formality
Caring for older adults, especially those with complex medical or cognitive needs, requires more than good intentions. Staff must be trained in patient safety, mobility assistance, medication protocols, and responding to behavioral issues. Without a strong foundation, even well-meaning caregivers can cause harm to residents.
Experience and temperament are key
Inexperienced caregivers may not recognize signs of distress or know how to de-escalate tense situations. They might lack the patience and emotional resilience needed to manage the challenges of elder care. Staff with the right temperament are less likely to become frustrated or resort to abusive behavior.
Background checks help prevent harm
Routine background checks should never be skipped. Facilities that fail to screen for past criminal behavior or prior complaints risk hiring individuals who may harm residents. Abuse is more likely in environments where hiring practices are rushed or careless.
When choosing a nursing home, it’s important to ask about staff qualifications, turnover and training programs. Ensuring that caregivers have the right experience is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of abuse. If your loved one has been abused in a nursing home, you do have legal options. If the nursing home facility was negligent, your loved one may be entitled to financial compensation.