A study that was conducted by Northwestern University and published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society revealed shocking trends in the hiring practices of many nursing staff agencies across the country. It showed that the agencies were hiring unqualified in-home caregivers to provide care and treatment to patients. The researchers surveyed 180 agencies, and only about half of them performed federally-approved criminal background checks on applicants. In addition, only 1/3 of them performed regular drug tests for employees.
Furthermore, none of the agencies tested the medical knowledge of the applicants, and few provided any training to employees. Elderly patients who need assistance with daily tasks often rely on in-home caregivers to provide medical treatment and other services. Unqualified and inexperienced caregivers may put those elderly patients in danger for injuries and abuse.
Help Keep Your Loved One Safe
You are the best advocate for your elderly loved one. If you are considering a nursing home or in-home care agency, it is important to make unannounced visits often to determine the quality of care the staff provides. Furthermore, you should ask questions about the experience and knowledge of the caretaker who is assisting your loved one, as well as hiring policies of the agency. By checking in regularly, you can help ensure your loved one is well cared for.
Compassionate Lexington Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers
At Goeing Goeing & McQuinn PLLC, we provide knowledgeable legal services to clients who have suffered from elder abuse or neglect. Our firm can discuss your options and help you pursue justice from those responsible. We can use evidence to build your case and guide you through the process.
Contact us today to learn how our legal advocate can fight for you.