Nursing home residents count on the staff members to make sure they’re safe. One of the staff members’ tasks is ensuring residents can get around safely. Any resident who’s considered a fall risk should have extra assistance as they move around the nursing home.
There are several things that can contribute to a nursing home resident falling. There are just as many ways nursing homes can reduce the risk of falling.
Fall risk assessments are critical
All nursing home residents should have a fall risk assessment when they’re admitted into the facility. This should be updated on a regular basis, especially if they have new risk factors that increase the chance of them falling.
Factors that can increase the risk of falls
Many factors, including limited mobility, can increase the chance of a person falling. Certain medications may make them unsteady on their feet. Diseases that decrease cognitive function also increase the chance of a fall. Providing them with suitable assistance for getting around the nursing home can help to keep them safe.
Serious injuries can occur
Nursing home residents who fall can suffer from serious injuries. Broken bones, including the hip, is possible. Additionally, they can end up with a brain or spinal cord injury. Healing may take longer for older people, so preventing them from falling is the best course of action.
Anyone who suffers an injury due to a fall in a nursing home should get immediate medical attention. Seeking compensation if the fall was due to abuse or neglect in the nursing home is possible. You only have a limited time to do this in Kentucky, so it’s wise to seek legal guidance as soon as possible.
