Lawyers for Improper Use of Restraints and Sedation in Miami

There have been many ethical issues that have presented themselves due to sedation and restraints being used on residents within nursing homes, but it has recently developed into a legal issue. The independence and dignity of a resident are compromised when they are restrained. Being restrained not only causes them emotional distress, but it can also cause them to develop physical complications like muscular atrophy due to the movement limitation that they have. When sedatives or chemical restraints are used, the effects can be far worse because it might intervene with other forms of medication that the patient might be taking. When two drugs are mixed together, the risk of developing a stroke or heart attack is increased.

Because there are many risks associated with the use of sedatives and restraints, the only time it should be used is for the safety of the resident and others and when there is absolutely no other method available. If these methods are used just for convenience or in a way to punish the resident, then a Miami attorney for improper use of sedatives and restraints of elder abuse will pursue accountability against the individual/s guilty of having neglected or abused the elder person.  A resident might be misbehaving, but this is a sign of concern because they might have been mistreated. When this happens, facilities should not automatically turn to restraints and instead investigation why the resident is behaving in a bad manner.

Warnings Signs That Can Suggest that an Elder has Become a Victim of Restraint

Sometimes, restraints are needed to keep the safety of the resident and others, but other times, it is often unnecessary and other means could have been adopted. Some signs that an elder person may have fallen victim of a restraint abuse include:

• Bruising around the wrists
• Bed frame of resident containing straps or belts
• Lack of focus
• Sleepiness

Sedative and Restraints Figures in Nursing Homes

• About 60% of residents within a nursing home are on a psychiatric drug
• Powerful antipsychotics are given to 30% of the resident population

Restraints and Sedatives FAQS

Question: What are some forms of restraints?

Answer: When the movement of a person is restricted with either a drug or device, this is known as a restraint. Some of those types include:

• Xanax
• Vests
• Arm straps
• Wheelchair bars
• Seroquel; and
• More

Question: What is the difference between a chemical restraint and a restraint?

Answer: A chemical restraint refers to a sedative. It is in the form of a medication to keep the resident under control, while a regular restraint is a physical device that helps to keep the resident restrained like a strap or vest.

Attorneys in Miami Firm for Neglect and Abuse Towards the Older Population

If an elder person was chemically or physically restrained during the time when they were supposed to be cared for, attorneys at Percy Martinez Law Firm in Miami for neglect and abuse with restraints will fight until justice has been expressed for the victim and their family.