Wheelchairs are an important mobility aid used in nursing homes to help residents maintain independence and improve their quality of life. However, accidents may happen, leading to injuries that can significantly impact a resident’s health and well-being.
Understanding the cause of a wheelchair accident can help determine whether negligence was involved and whether your loved one may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. These accidents may be caused by:
1. Poor maintenance
Poorly maintained wheelchairs can pose significant risks to nursing home residents. Issues such as malfunctioning brakes, damaged wheels or loose parts can lead to dangerous accidents, including tipping over or failing to stop when necessary. Without regular inspections and repairs, these issues may go unnoticed, putting residents at risk for falls, fractures or other serious injuries. Nursing homes have a duty to make sure all mobility equipment is in proper working condition to protect their residents’ safety.
2. Overexertion and poor posture
Overexertion and poor posture are common causes of wheelchair accidents in nursing homes. When residents are required to push themselves for long periods or move over uneven surfaces without assistance, they can become fatigued, increasing the likelihood of losing control. Improper posture, while seated in a wheelchair, can lead to balance problems, making residents more prone to tipping or sliding out. Staff should monitor residents’ activity levels and seating posture to reduce the risk of these types of accidents.
3. Transferring to and from a wheelchair
Transferring to and from a wheelchair is one of the riskiest moments for nursing home residents. Accidents can happen if staff are improperly trained, fail to use the right transfer equipment or rush the process. Residents may slip, fall or be dropped during transfers, leading to potentially severe injuries. Proper training for staff and the use of appropriate transfer devices are vital to better ensuring resident safety during these critical transitions.
If your loved one was injured in a nursing home wheelchair accident due to negligence, legal guidance can help explore options for seeking compensation for their injuries.
