Residents of Albuquerque and other areas of New Mexico may want to know more about a continuing problem that affects nursing homes. There is a widespread shortage of nursing staff, which affects the care of those who live in residential homes. Families and loved ones may want to know more about why the elderly and other patients might be at risk in New Mexico facilities.
Short-staffing Has Unintended Consequences
According to NurseGrid, patient load is further burdened when patient levels increase. There may be problems that arise from inadequate staffing levels.
The following issues have been known to occur among nursing homes and rehab facilities that are short-staffed. They include:
- Falls
- Medication mistakes
- Bed sores
- Burnout of staff
- Patient dissatisfaction
Inadequate Care May Happen With Outside Staffing
In an effort to alleviate the shortage of nurses, a care team with assistive personnel may be hired. Outside staffing may also help. This, however, does not make up for the critical care that is most important.
Delayed or unfinished care may be the result; necessary care may also suffer and is less likely to receive completion. Studies have shown that there are adverse outcomes regarding mortality for patients. Nursing home neglect may lead to serious risks for patient health.
There Is Less Patient Care
A study by the The New England Journal of Medicine concluded that the management of patients diminishes when nurse workload is high. This leads to a higher risk of adverse events. Nursing staff and management must work together to achieve the right staffing levels for the best care of their patients.
If your loved one may be the victim of neglect at a nursing home or other care facility that has inadequate staffing, it is wise to contact an attorney with experience in this type of law. You want the best for your family and loved ones, and an attorney may help advise you on how to hold a nursing home responsible for lack of care.