Concerns about a loved one’s care deserve careful attention. Ratsenberg & Associates, P.C. reviews nursing home abuse and neglect matters in Brooklyn, helping families understand the questions a potential legal claim may involve.
If someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical attention, seek emergency assistance first. A consultation about a legal claim is separate from getting the resident the care and protection they need now.
Concerns families may want to investigate
Unexplained injuries, repeated falls, pressure injuries, changes in hygiene or concerns about nutrition and hydration can prompt questions about care. These observations do not establish neglect by themselves. Medical conditions, care plans and the circumstances surrounding an incident need to be considered.
Write down specific observations and dates. Distinguish between what you saw, what the resident told you and what staff explained. A clear timeline is more useful than a general conclusion about the facility.
Records that may help clarify what happened
- The facility name and the resident’s admission and incident dates.
- Relevant medical records and care plans that you are authorized to obtain.
- Incident reports and written communications with the facility.
- Dated photographs obtained with appropriate permission.
- The names of people who may have relevant information.
- A timeline of changes in condition, treatment or care.
Respect the resident’s privacy and legal authority over their records. Do not publish medical details or photographs online to seek an assessment of a potential case.
Reporting concerns and reviewing a civil claim
The New York State Department of Health accepts nursing home complaints. Its complaint process and a civil claim serve different purposes. Filing a complaint does not replace advice about a possible claim or its deadlines.
The Department also publishes nursing home residents’ rights, including rights related to dignity and freedom from abuse. These materials can help families identify questions to raise about care.
How we approach the initial review
We begin with the resident’s circumstances, the events that concern you and the available records. A potential claim requires an assessment of responsibility, injury and the connection between them. No outcome can be promised from a brief description or a photograph.
Nursing home questions
Can a family member contact the firm?
Yes. Explain your relationship to the resident and any authority you have to act or access records. We can discuss what is needed for the next step.
Does every fall or pressure injury mean neglect?
No. The resident’s health, assessed risks, care and circumstances must be reviewed. Tell us what happened without assuming the legal conclusion.
What if I have already complained to the facility?
Keep copies of the complaint and responses, together with dates and names. Tell us whether any investigation or other legal matter is already underway.
For general information about claim evaluation, see our personal injury overview.
Speak with our Brooklyn law firm
Ratsenberg & Associates, P.C. is located at 2579 East 17th Street, Suite 51, Brooklyn, NY 11235. We speak English, Russian and Georgian. Call 718-676-5757 or request a free consultation. You can also meet our attorneys before getting in touch.