Falls and Fractures
Falls are another common problem encountered by the elderly in nursing homes. There are a number of ways in which patients can fall in nursing homes.
They may not be secured properly into wheelchairs and can easily slip out. Patients can also be left in beds without rails to protect them. Other causes include environmental hazards such as, wet floors, poor lighting, incorrect bed height and general clutter around the nursing home.
If anyone suffers a fall then this can lead to lacerations, abrasions, bone fractures, disfigurement and even head injury.
Falls in nursing homes can be prevented by
- Ensuring that assessments are made to identify and address risk factors and treat underlying medical conditions
- Ensuring that modifications are made to improve mobility and safety for example, grab bars, lowering bed heights and installing handrails.
- Provide patients with hip pads to reduce the risk of hip fracture if a fall occurs.
Contact us if you feel that a loved one has suffered as a result of abuse in a nursing home. All initial consultations are free
