How Serious Are Breathing Tube Injuries in Nursing Homes?

 Posted on November 30, 2023 in Nursing Home Abuse

Breathing tube injuries can have severe consequences for nursing home residents, and their occurrence raises concerns about potential abuse and neglect. If someone you love has been seriously injured by one instance of a breathing tube injury or several instances, it may be worth taking a closer look at. To examine the situation further, consider contacting a dedicated lawyer in Illinois. Your lawyer will uncover the facts of the case and work to bring you and your family answers as to whether abuse and neglect are occurring to your loved one. 

Understanding Breathing Tube Injuries

Breathing tubes refer to devices used to assist individuals in breathing. They are commonly used in nursing homes for residents with difficulty breathing independently. However, improper placement, inadequate monitoring, or negligent care of these tubes can lead to serious injuries and complications. 

The Severity of Breathing Tube Injuries

Breathing tube injuries can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening complications. Some common injuries include damage to the trachea or vocal cords, infections, airway obstruction, and even death. These injuries can result from improper insertion, failure to secure the tube properly, or neglect of routine maintenance and monitoring. 

Signs Abuse or Neglect is Occurring

While breathing tube injuries can undoubtedly occur unintentionally, they can also be indicative of abuse or neglect in nursing homes. Signs that may suggest mistreatment include frequent or unexplained breathing tube dislodgment, inadequate monitoring of the tube's condition, delays in seeking medical attention for complications, or a pattern of recurring injuries. If a resident consistently experiences breathing tube injuries without any reasonable explanation, it may be cause for concern.

Negligence and Poor Care

In the care of a nursing home, residents are expected by law to receive timely and proper treatment for whatever is ailing them. In the case of breathing tube injuries, negligence can occur when staff members fail to follow established protocols for inserting and maintaining the tube, neglect regular checks for position and cleanliness, or ignore signs of complications. If a breathing tube injury is the result of such negligence, it may be an indication of abuse or neglect. 

Contact a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Injury Lawyer 

Ultimately, breathing tube injuries are very serious and can be a sign of nursing home neglect and abuse. Seeking legal assistance in such cases can help protect the residents' rights. To get the aggressive legal aid you need, contact the Cook County, IL nursing home injury attorneys with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 312-535-4625 for a free consultation.