There are a number of medical facilities and nursing homes that regularly prescribe and overuse antipsychotic drugs for the elderly. This is still an issue even though federal laws have put stringent restrictions on the use of these items. If you are worried that your loved one may be receiving these drugs, even if they should not, you may need to hire a Hiawatha nursing home neglect attorney to help you stop the abuse and receive compensation.
How are Antipsychotic Drugs Used?
In most cases, antipsychotic drugs are used for the treatment of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia and are considered to be dangerous for individuals who suffer from dementia. However, there are more than 300,000 patients currently in nursing homes who still receive these drugs even with the new laws in place. If your loved one is one of these individuals, then they may be a victim of Hiawatha nursing home neglect.
What are the Dangers of Antipsychotic Drugs?
An average nursing home patient takes an average of 10 different medications. This can present an issue for some because antipsychotics can adversely react with these other medications being taken. The drugs include ingredients that act as a type of sedative for the patients, which can leave them listless, unresponsive, confused or even render them susceptible to a fall or other type of injury. Also, overuse of antipsychotics can also lead to respiratory infections, strokes and other serious issues.
If you believe that your elderly loved one may be receiving these drugs, but not really need them, then you may have a case for Hiawatha nursing home neglect. Hiring an attorney to investigate the issue is the best way to determine if this is the case.
Learn more about nursing home neglect by visiting the Tom Riley Law Firm website.
