What Happens if Someone Dies in a Nursing Home?

 Posted on May 06, 2024 in Nursing Home Abuse

The death of a loved one often brings intense emotional agony, and it may come with a complex legal process. When a death occurs in an Illinois nursing home, specific procedures are relevant. Understanding the steps involved can offer a sense of guidance during these difficult times. And remember, if you believe your loved one’s death was related to nursing home abuse or neglect, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and discuss the matter with a trained attorney, particularly if the personal representative of the deceased is interested in filing a wrongful death claim.

The respected legal professionals at Schwartz Injury Law understand how difficult it can be to hear your loved one passed away in his or her nursing home. The situation can become even more difficult when abuse or neglect is suspected as related to the death. For family members reeling after the death of a loved one, our skilled attorneys will handle your case in a compassionate manner, which you can depend on during this painful time. 

The Critical First Step

After a death occurs in a nursing home, the immediate step is notification. The nursing home is required to inform the resident’s representative or next of kin about this unfortunate event as soon as possible. The nursing home also informs the resident’s physician, who is then responsible for certifying the death. 

Reporting to the Coroner

After the death has been pronounced, if the death was not due to natural causes or if there is any suspicion of negligence or abuse, the nursing home must inform the local coroner or medical examiner. This ensures a transparent investigation into the circumstances of the death while safeguarding the residents’ rights and providing closure for the family. 

Handling of Personal Property

The deceased resident’s personal belongings are taken into account following his or her passing. The nursing home is responsible for safekeeping these items until they can be rightfully distributed according to the resident’s will or Illinois intestate law, which governs property disbursement for individuals who die without a will.

Post-Death Formalities for Nursing Homes

Following the immediate actions after the death, nursing homes in Illinois have obligations to formally conclude the deceased resident’s stay. This involves finalizing certain administrative procedures, such as closing out financial accounts.

Contact Our Winnebago County, IL Nursing Home Wrongful Death Lawyer

While every effort should be made to ensure that our loved ones are well taken care of in nursing homes, the aftermath of a death in such facilities can be quite complicated. And remember, if you have concerns as to the cause of your loved one’s death or something else, contact the widely respected Chicago, IL nursing home wrongful death attorneys with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 312-535-4625 for a free consultation.