Free Consultation
Tampa Bladder and Bowel Injuries Lawyer
Our skilled attorneys fight against nursing home abuse in Tampa, Florida
We trust nursing homes to take proper care of our loved ones. We expect them to provide a safe and comfortable environment, but unfortunately, not all facilities live up to these expectations. One of the most overlooked and serious forms of nursing home abuse involves bladder and bowel injuries. These types of injuries can involve extreme pain, embarrassment, or even life-threatening complications. If your loved one suffered from a bladder or bowel injury in a Tampa nursing home, get an experienced attorney on your side. At MattLaw, we fight to hold negligent nursing homes accountable and seek justice and compensation for victims and their families.
Free Consultation
How we can help you
- What are bladder and bowel injuries?
- How do bladder and bowel injuries happen in Tampa nursing homes?
- What are the signs of bladder and bowel injuries in Tampa nursing home residents?
- What should I do if I expect nursing home abuse at my loved one’s Tampa nursing home?
- How can a Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer help with my case?
- What is the value of my Tampa nursing home abuse case?
- Do you have a Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer near me?
What are bladder and bowel injuries?
Bladder and bowel injuries refer to any harm affecting a person’s ability to control urination or bowel movements. According to the National Library of Medicine, over 50% of nursing home residents suffer from fecal or urinary incontinence. These injuries can be caused by trauma, neglect, infections, or poor hygiene. In a nursing home setting, they are often preventable and result from inadequate care.
Some common types of bladder and bowel injuries include:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are caused by bacteria entering the urinary system, often happening due to poor hygiene or neglect.
- Incontinence, which is the inability to control bladder or bowel function, sometimes due to untreated medical conditions.
- Constipation and impaction, which is when waste becomes stuck in the intestines, leading to pain and serious health risks.
- Catheter-related injuries, as the improper use of lack of care with a catheter can lead to infections or damage to the urinary tract.
- Bowel obstructions, a dangerous condition where the intestines can become blocked, potentially necessitating emergency surgery.
These injuries can be incredibly painful and, if left untreated, may lead to severe complications like sepsis, kidney failure, or even death.
How do bladder and bowel injuries happen in Tampa nursing homes?
Nursing home residents must rely on staff members for help with their daily needs, including assistance with the bathroom and personal hygiene. When staff members fail to provide the proper care, residents can suffer serious injuries. Some common causes of bladder and bowel injuries in Tampa nursing homes include:
- Neglect. Many nursing home residents need assistance using the bathroom. When staff members ignore their needs, residents may be forced to sit in soiled clothing for hours, which can lead to infections, skin breakdown, and other serious health issues.
- Poor hygiene practices. Nursing homes must follow strict hygiene protocols to prevent infections. If a caregiver fails to wash their hands, clean a catheter properly, or change soiled bedding, harmful bacteria can spread and cause serious infections like UTIs.
- Malnutrition and dehydration. Proper hydration and nutrition are vital for a senior’s digestive and urinary health. If a nursing home fails to provide enough fluids or fiber-rich foods, residents can suffer from constipation, impactions, or bladder infections.
- Lack of mobility assistance. Many elderly residents struggle with mobility. If the staff doesn’t help residents move or reposition themselves, residents can develop pressure sores, infections, or bowel blockages.
- Medication errors. Certain medications can cause bladder or bowel issues, especially if they’re not administered correctly. If nursing home staff fail to monitor medication side effects, a resident could develop serious digestive or urinary problems.
What are the signs of bladder and bowel injuries in Tampa nursing home residents?
You should watch for signs of bladder and bowel injuries if your loved one is in a nursing home. Some of the warning signs include:
- Frequent UTIs or other infections
- Complains of pain or burning during urination
- Strong-smelling or cloudy urine
- Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Severe constipation or diarrhea
- Soiled clothing and/or bedding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Dehydration or signs of malnutrition
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications and further harm.
What should I do if I expect nursing home abuse at my loved one’s Tampa nursing home?
If you believe that your loved one has suffered a bladder or bowel injury due to nursing home abuse or neglect, you should take the following steps.
- Make sure your loved one receives proper medical care by seeking immediate medical attention. A doctor can diagnose the issue, provide treatment, and document any signs of neglect.
- You can report nursing home abuse to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) or the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. Reporting the abuse ensures that an investigation takes place and can prevent harm to other residents.
- Document everything you can. Keep records of any signs of neglect, including photos of injuries, medical reports, and notes on conversations with nursing home staff. The more evidence you’re able to gather, the stronger your case will be.
- Contact the experienced Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers at MattLaw. We can help you file a claim against the nursing home and seek justice for your loved one. We understand the devastating effects of nursing home abuse and fight to hold negligent facilities accountable.
How can a Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer help with my case?
It can be complicated to pursue a legal claim against a nursing home. However, our experienced lawyers can help you work through the process. Here’s what we at MattLaw can do for you:
- We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review your loved one’s medical records to build a strong case.
- We hold the nursing home accountable by fighting for compensation to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- By taking legal action, we help push for better care standards and protect future residents from further harm.
We also provide support and guidance throughout the legal process. Our attorneys understand that this is a difficult time, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
What is the value of my Tampa nursing home abuse case?
Victims of nursing home neglect may be entitled to a variety of compensation, including the following:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Costs of relocating to a safer facility
- Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence or abuse)
We understand that no amount of money can erase the pain and suffering caused by nursing home neglect, but it can provide financial relief and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Do you have a Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer near me?
Yes, we have an office in Tampa located at 304 S Plant Ave, Tampa, FL 33606. You can schedule an in-person consultation or a virtual appointment with one of our attorneys to discuss your case.
Compassionate bladder and bowel injury lawyers serving Tampa
Bladder and bowel injuries in nursing homes are serious and often preventable. If your loved one has suffered due to neglect, you don’t have to face this battle alone. At MattLaw, we are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring nursing homes provide the care their residents deserve. Reach out to schedule a free consultation with one of our Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers today.