Diversicare of Nicholasville has received the largest fine in recent years after a January inspection found that an outbreak of scabies went on for months and affected 45% of residents. The facility was fined $891,350 because of the operators’ unwillingness to respond to nurses and their supervisors complaints about residents with rashes.
One of the residents had to be hospitalized, and others developed bacterial infections. This is an extreme case of elder neglect, and the federal government responded with an equally extreme fine. These residents, under Diversicare’s care, were unable to speak for themselves, and the facility neglected even to respond to the nurses who attempted to speak on their patients’ behalf.
What is scabies?
Scabies is caused by a burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabei. As the mites burrow into the skin, they cause intense itching which can result in red, irritated rashes. While the condition isn’t fatal on its own, it is extremely uncomfortable. The mites can cause breaks in the skin, leaving the victim vulnerable to bacterial infections and other conditions.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Scabies is contagious and can spread quickly through close physical contact... Because of the contagious nature of scabies, doctors often recommend treatment for entire families or contact groups.” The facility, the report said, failed to wash linens and did not properly disinfect rooms and furniture.
Scabies is easily treatable with prescription creams. The ease of resolving the infestation makes the conditions at Diversicare all the worse. According to Kentucky.com, “33 residents... were infested with scabies...Nearly all of the infested senior citizens were listed as having moderate to severe cognitive impairments.”
Elder abuse and neglect is a serious matter. When you choose a nursing home for your loved ones, you are placing their health and well-being in the hands of trusted professionals. When that trust is breached, you are entitled to compensation for the physical and emotional suffering of your loved one and your family members. The attorneys at Crandall & Pera Law are experienced in dealing with nursing home abuse and neglect cases in Kentucky and in Ohio, and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.