Reporting Neglect and Abuse
take action to immediately report suspected nursing home abuse or neglect
It is a violation of State and Federal law for any person, including facility staff, volunteers, visitors, family members or guardians, or another resident, to neglect or abuse a resident.
- Anyone can and should report neglect and abuse. If you suspect neglect or abuse, or if a resident tells you they are experiencing this problem, it is important to believe the resident and REPORT THE ALLEGATION IMMEDIATELY. This will help prevent further suffering by any resident.
- Many states have laws that require the reporting of abuse and neglect. Find out what your state requires.
- Put your report in writing, date it, and keep a copy. Convey as much information as you can about the situation. Remember to include:
WHO – The name of the victim, including age and address; the name of the facility and the people responsible for the victim’s care; the identity of the person who you believe abused or neglected the resident;
WHAT – The nature and extent of harm and any physical signs of abuse or neglect; any previous incidents; what happened;
WHERE and WHEN – The place where the incident happened and time and date of the incident.
Provide as much background information as possible. A thorough report will help the investigator to address the situation quickly.
Make Your Report To:
- The nursing home’s administrator, director of nursing, and social worker
- The state or local ombudsman
- The local police or State law enforcement
- A Protection and Advocacy or Adult Protective Services agency
- The state survey agency that licenses and certifies nursing homes (often in the Health Department)
- A citizen advocacy group, or other church or community group that visits regularly.
Keep trying until you get the http://www.nccnhr.org.