Head and Brain Injuries Caused by Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse

 Posted on July 06, 2022 in Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Nursing homes and other long-term care facilities must ensure that residents are protected and safe. A crucial aspect of this responsibility is preventing accidental injuries. Falling is especially dangerous for elderly and disabled individuals. A minor fall accident can have catastrophic consequences.

Many residents cannot move around independently. They need assistance to get in and out of bed, use the bathroom, or go to common areas of the nursing home facility. When residents are not given the help they need, they may try to move on their own, leading to slip and fall or trip and fall injuries. Falling can cause potentially life-threatening head injuries.

If your loved one suffered a head injury or traumatic brain injury because of an avoidable nursing home fall accident, contact a nursing home injury lawyer for help.

Environmental Hazards and Negligent Supervision Can Cause Falls

Studies show that falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury in older adults. Residents with physical limitations or cognitive impairment are at especially high risk of fall accidents.

Nursing homes should be kept free of environmental hazards that increase the chances of a resident falling. Something as simple as spilled water can be a substantial danger in a nursing home.

Environmental hazards that can lead to fall accidents include:

• Liquid, oil, or other slippery substances on the floor

• Trip hazards including electrical cords or tubes

• Clutter, trash, and debris on the floor

• Dim lighting

• Loose floor mats

• Torn or loose carpeting

• Broken floor tiles

Residents should have properly fitting shoes and clothes that reduce the chances of falling. Facilities should be fitted with handrails, grab bars, and other assistive devices.

Some residents are unable to move around by themselves and require constant assistance and supervision. Staff are expected to provide the assistance residents need. This includes keeping track of residents’ whereabouts and frequently checking in on residents. Individuals suffering from dementia or other cognitive illnesses must be supervised closely because they are at increased risk of wandering and elopement.

Has My Loved One Suffered a Head Injury?

Brain injuries caused in a fall accident may lead to symptoms including:

• Headaches

• Vomiting or nausea

• Difficulty sleeping

• Difficulty speaking

• Memory loss

• Confusion or disorientation

• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears

• Sudden emotional and behavioral changes

Schedule a Free Consult with a Chicago Nursing Home Injury Lawyer

Sadly, not all nursing homes are as diligent about preventing head injuries caused by fall accidents as they should be. If your loved one sustained a head injury in a nursing home fall accident, contact Kadzai Law Group, LLC. Our skilled Chicago nursing home injury attorneys can help you hold the facility responsible and pursue financial compensation for damages. Call 312-229-0050 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=1225&ChapterID=21