Many seniors move into nursing care facilities because they are no longer able to care for themselves on a day-to-day basis. Residents commonly struggle with mobility, putting them at risk of falling. Falls are one of the most common injuries among seniors although most are completely preventable. A few common events that can occur at a nursing home and lead to a fall incident include:
- Medication errors- If a senior is not provided the correct medication or is given an incorrect dosage it can affect their ability to balance, increase confusion, and make them dizzy – which can result in them falling.
- Improper transfers- If a resident requires a mechanical lift or transfer and a staff member does not use the proper equipment or have an adequate number of staff members to assist them, they could put the resident at risk of being dropped.
- Rolling out of bed- Residents are susceptible to falling out of their beds and seriously injuring themselves. Many of these injuries are preventable whether it is through lowering the bed, adding floor mats, or removing any objects near the resident’s bed.
- Improper Supervision- Many residents have orders regarding their supervision when being mobile. If these orders are not followed, and a resident moves without the proper supervision and support, it can often lead to a dangerous fall.
When a senior citizen falls, the repercussions can be detrimental. Seniors are more likely to break or fracture a bone because bones become more porous with age. If your loved one has experienced a fall incident in a senior home facility, call Potter Law today.