Aperion Care operates over 30 skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities in Illinois. However, a closer look reveals a concerning pattern of neglect and abuse allegations against this for-profit healthcare provider. This article examines Aperion Care’s history of violations, understaffing issues, and a tragic case study highlighting the devastating consequences of their negligence.
Aperion Care’s Troubling Record with Illinois Department of Public Health
The Illinois Department of Public Health’s quarterly violation reports consistently cite Aperion Care facilities for safety and care deficiencies. These recurring violations raise serious questions about the quality of care provided to residents within their network. Lawsuits filed against Aperion Care further expose systemic issues, including a pattern of understaffing that jeopardizes resident safety.
The Dangers of Understaffing in Aperion Care Facilities
Chronic understaffing in nursing homes like those operated by Aperion Care directly impacts resident well-being. Inadequate staffing levels lead to insufficient supervision, compromised communication among caregivers, and a lack of consistent training. The Long Term Care Community Coalition (LTCCC) has identified Aperion facilities as among the worst offenders in terms of staffing hours per resident. For instance, one Aperion facility in Wilmington, Illinois, reportedly provides as little as .1 hour of staff time per resident per day. This severe lack of attention contributes significantly to the risk of neglect and abuse.
Case Study: Fatal Strangulation at Aperion Care Moline
A tragic incident at Aperion Care Moline exemplifies the devastating consequences of neglect. A male resident died from strangulation after his nightgown straps became entangled on his bed. Despite his roommate’s repeated distress calls, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) arrived 20 minutes later, finding the resident blue and unresponsive. The CNA allegedly failed to administer CPR, citing the resident’s vomiting as a reason. However, established CPR protocols mandate clearing the airway and initiating CPR if the patient is not breathing, regardless of vomiting. Further investigation revealed that not all CNAs at the facility were CPR trained and the crash cart lacked essential equipment. While Aperion Care Moline was fined for this fatal neglect, the facility continues to operate despite ongoing complaints and violations.
Recurring Neglect and Abuse at Aperion Care Homes
Levin & Perconti, a leading nursing home abuse and neglect law firm, has handled numerous cases against Aperion Care. Their experience reveals a disturbing pattern of preventable tragedies stemming from cost-cutting measures that prioritize profits over resident safety. Illinois Department of Health inspection reports from 2018 further corroborate these findings, citing deficiencies at various Aperion facilities:
- Aperion Care Bloomington: Inadequate resident care plans and safety risk assessments.
- Aperion Care Cairo: Failure to provide proper notification of Medicaid/Medicare coverage and inadequate care for continent and incontinent residents.
- Aperion Care International: Improper storage and labeling of medications and lack of infection control programs.
- Aperion Care Plum Grove: Significantly below average RN staffing levels and high rates of depression among long-stay residents treated with antipsychotic medication.
Legal Recourse for Aperion Care Residents and Families
Nursing home residents deserve compassionate, competent care. Neglect and abuse are unacceptable. Levin & Perconti is dedicated to advocating for victims of nursing home negligence and holding facilities like Aperion Care accountable. They have secured numerous million-dollar verdicts and settlements for families impacted by nursing home abuse and neglect. If you or a loved one has suffered harm at an Aperion Care facility, contact Levin & Perconti for a free and confidential consultation.
Conclusion: Demand Accountability from Aperion Care
The recurring instances of neglect and abuse at Aperion Care facilities demand attention. Families considering placing loved ones in their care should thoroughly research the facility’s history and prioritize resident safety above all else. Holding Aperion Care accountable for their actions is crucial to protecting vulnerable residents and ensuring they receive the quality care they deserve.
