Neglect often occurs in nursing homes in Indiana because of poorly staffed facilities. Now, the Biden administration aims to correct the quality of care that nursing homes provide through a proposal for minimum staffing requirements for registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs).
Improving resident care
Most states have minimum staffing standards that are either extremely inadequate or more than 20 years old. Studies have shown that higher staffing standards lead to decreased instances of nursing home neglect. The proposed rules would require at least one registered nurse to be on site 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Most nursing homes have at least one RN working eight hours daily and an LPN or a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) on staff for 24-hour hours.
Will the standards be implemented?
Industry trade groups and associations have opposed the proposed rules, calling them unfathomable and disappointing. However, nursing home analysts and elder care advocacy groups have lauded the Biden administration’s efforts as a step in the right direction. Consumer groups have indicated that the proposals need to go further. When or if the rules are implemented remains to be seen.
Staying vigilant for nursing home neglect
Nursing home neglect can lead to catastrophic injuries. Not providing an expected level of care can lead to a variety of issues affecting residents.
If you have a loved one living in a nursing home, remain vigilant for signs of neglect. Common symptoms include extensive bedsores, broken bones, unexplained falls, malnourishment, dehydration, medication errors, mental and physical abuse, and a failure to diagnose and treat infections.
