Neglect and acts of omission
Definition of neglect: The failure of any person, who has responsibility for the charge, care or custody of an adult at risk, to provide the amount and type of care that a reasonable person would be expected to provide. Neglect can be intentional or unintentional.
Neglect and Acts of Omission includes:
- Ignoring medical, emotional or physical care needs
- Failure to provide access to appropriate health, care and support or educational services
- The withholding of the necessities of life, such as medication, adequate nutrition and heating.
The following are also potential indicators of Neglect and Acts of Omission:
- Poor environmental conditions
- Inadequate heating and lighting
- Poor physical condition of the vulnerable adult
- Clothing is ill-fitting, unclean and in poor condition
- Malnutrition
- Failure to give prescribed medication properly
- Failure to provide appropriate privacy and dignity
- Inconsistent or reluctant contact with health and social care agencies
- Isolation – denying access to callers or visitors.