Many Falls in Nursing Homes Could Be Prevented

When we entrust the care our elderly loved ones in a nursing facility, we expect that they will be attended to with the proper attention and care. Sometimes, that is not the case. There are many instances of negligent care in nursing facilities. Falls in nursing homes are among the most common reason for injuries in the elderly.

Nursing Home Neglect May Cause Falls

Nursing homes are required to provide proper care to residents. Some patients may need more supervision than others. The needs of a resident may change over time. Caregivers must monitor and assist residents when they need help standing, walking, or completing their daily tasks. When supervision is lacking or staffing is inadequate to handle the residents, the incidence of falls often increases. Unfortunately, elderly people may suffer serious injuries from falls.

Injuries Due to Falls in Nursing Homes

Most people suffer only minor scrapes or bruises when they fall. However, for the elderly, falls can be quite serious. Some of the most severe injuries include broken bones and head injuries. Senior Citizens typically have thinner bones, which can fracture more easily in a fall. Injuries also take longer to heal in older individuals. When a hip is fractured, for example, the victim may require surgery, and will be immobile for weeks or months.

Prevention of Falls in Nursing Homes

Falls in nursing homes are often preventable. Many times, residents fall because they do not have adequate help standing or walking. Some patients are unsteady due to the medications they are taking. Regular evaluation of each resident is necessary to determine their need for monitoring and assistance. If enough caregivers are available, the residents will have the help they need to walk or stand.

Complications after Injuries from Falls

Unfortunately, elderly people may suffer complications after they are injured in falls. For many elderly, a fall is the beginning of a general decline in health. If the injured person is bedridden, they may develop pressure ulcers. These sores can worsen and become infected, causing pain and suffering. If the infection spreads, the elderly individual may even die.

Negligent Care in Nursing Homes

Nursing homes must ensure the safety and well-being of their residents. When a resident is injured because of a fall, it may be a sign of nursing home neglect. Nursing home residents need to be properly cared for at all times. If your loved one fell in a nursing home, a lawsuit may be necessary. Call the personal injury lawyers at Udall Shumway PLC for a consultation to discuss your situation.

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you or someone you know wishes to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney regarding Falls in Nursing Homes, or other personal injury matters, call Mesa AZ Personal Injury Attorney Clark R. Richter at 480-461-5321 or contact him at crr@udallshumway.com for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.