Staff sexual abuse of residents – a nursing home nightmare

Staff sexual abuse of nursing home residents is uncommon, but when it happens, it’s devastating – patient lives are destroyed, the facilities’ reputations are tarnished and they may face costly lawsuits.

The abuse can happen because patients are highly vulnerable, can’t defend themselves and are in close contact with their caregivers.

Preventing the abuse starts with stiff background checks of prospective employees. Criminal background checks can determine if the applicant has a record of sexual abuse.

Following the background check, a thorough interview should be held in which an applicant must demonstrate an ability to handle stressful situations.

Applicants and staff should also be instructed on reporting abuse, and management should be comfortable interacting with employees so they will report it.

Sexual abuse is a secret fear of nursing home residents and their families, but with the right system in place to screen out abusers and encourage reporting of abuses, nursing homes can minimize the risk. Learn more ...