New York nursing homes have many different responsibilities throughout the course of a year, and are responsible for keeping their residents safe from a variety of dangers. Some, like slip-and-fall injuries, are a danger all twelve months of the year. Others, like heat-related injuries, usually occur only during certain seasons.

Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion, pose a grave threat to our seniors. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion can cause numerous medical complications for the elderly. In some of the most serious cases, they can be deadly.

Nursing home patients are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Their bodies do not have adequate defenses against high temperatures, and they often cannot take steps to cool themselves without help from nurses or other staff members.

As a result, nursing homes have a responsibility to monitor their residents for signs of heat-related illnesses, and to take proper medical action when necessary. They also have to ensure that their patients are not exposed to heat for extended periods of time during the summer, and that they are given proper liquids and sun protection.

Some common symptoms of heat stroke are dry skin, loss of consciousness, disorientation, confusion, and in serious cases, even convulsions. Signs of heat exhaustion can include dizziness, headaches, fainting, fatigue, vomiting, and irritability.

If a nursing home allows a resident to suffer in this way, they are not living up to their promise to fully care for your loved ones. Their negligence, no matter what their intentions may have been, is considered New York nursing home abuse, and they can be held responsible for the consequences.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a heat related illness as a result of negligence on the part of nursing home staff, you should consider speaking with a Long Island nursing home abuse attorney. A lawyer can inform you of your legal rights and show you how to recover compensation.

Don't put yourself and loved ones in the hands of an insurance adjuster who does not have your best interests in mind. Call the Long Island nursing home abuse attorneys at Rappaport, Glass, Greene, and Levine today at (800) 734-9445 for a free consultation on your case.