Elder Law

Nursing Home Employee Sexual Assaults Incapacitated Resident

By Levin & Perconti

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Last week we reported on the arrest of 14 different nurses at the Northwoods Rehabilitation Center and Extended Care Facility. Following a state investigation the nurses were found to have committed a series of resident abuses and attempted to falsify records to cover up their bad conduct.

In that case investigators set up a hidden camera in the room of a 53-year old resident to monitor her care. The negligent and downright abusive behaviors that were caught on film led to the mass arrest earlier this month. The investigation ultimately led to a 175 count indictment against the women for failing to administer medications, failing to treat bedsores or check for incontinence, failing to change undergarments, and then falsifying records.

Now the Times-Union is reporting that another state probe was conducted last year at the same facility for sexual abuse of a resident there. In that case, a 53-year old nurse was arrested for sexually fondling an incapacitated 78-year old woman.

State officials now explain that the information that gathered about the nursing home following the sexual assault case of Gunderson played a role in the operation which led to the arrest of 14 nurses.

Our Chicago nursing home attorneys at Levin & Perconti know full well that many negligent nursing homes continue to provide unlawful care even after problems are uncovered. It is for that reason that it is important for all examples of abusive and negligent nursing home care to be brought forward and handled. Many facilities only take serious steps to improve resident care following repeated legal actions to force their compliance with nursing home laws. Too many residents continue to languish in these bad nursing homes. If you suspect improper treatment at a nearby facility, please contact a nursing home lawyer today.

Full post as published by Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Blog on September 23, 2010 (boomark / email).