Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in nursing homes. While residents may already be vulnerable, many falls occur due to conditions or actions that the facility or its staff could have prevented.
Below are some of the biggest contributors to nursing home falls.
Unsafe environments
A poorly maintained environment is one of the biggest causes of falls. Wet floors, dim lighting, loose rugs or cluttered walkways can create serious hazards. Bathrooms without grab bars and hallways without handrails also place residents at risk. Nursing homes are expected to provide safe surroundings, and failing to do so may make them responsible when accidents occur.
Inadequate staffing and supervision
Falls often occur when residents are left to move without the necessary assistance. Understaffing, inadequate training or delayed responses to call lights can all contribute to unsafe situations. If a resident who requires assistance attempts to get out of bed, use the restroom or walk without support, the nursing home may be liable for any resulting injuries.
Failure to follow care plans
Many residents have care plans that outline the precautions needed to keep them safe, such as the use of bed alarms, walking aids or scheduled assistance. When staff members ignore these plans or fail to properly monitor residents, preventable falls can occur. A facility that fails to implement these safety measures can be held accountable.
Neglect of medical needs
Falls may also result from staff not managing residents’ medical needs. This includes failing to monitor medication side effects, not providing necessary mobility aids or overlooking conditions that increase the likelihood of falls. Neglecting these responsibilities can directly link the nursing home to the cause of the accident.
Many nursing home falls are not just accidents but the result of preventable issues within the facility. If your loved one has been injured, you should seek legal guidance.
