Nursing Home Abuse - Patient Falls

A fall in a nursing home is not a rare thing, they are a common issue that care homes face but that does not mean that they should be tolerated or even excused.

If anyone suffers a fall then this can lead to severe injuries or even a fatality. It is much worse for the vulnerable such as the elderly.

There are many reasons why a patient may fall, here are a few:

The patient may not be properly secured in a wheelchair

Patients can fall out of bed if no rails are safety guards are used

Incorrect bed height

Wet Floors

Poor lighting that will effects the patient's sight

Obstacles left in a patient's path

Faulty equipments such as Mobility aids

there are many other factors but the above are the most obvious and common reasons.

Patients placed in a nursing home are there for a reason, they are vulnerable and need proper care. Failings in appropriate care will result in negligence such as a fall.

How can a fall in a nursing home be avoided?

Falls in nursing homes can be prevented by ensuring safety measures are in place and adhered to. All the reasons why a fall may occur in the first place, that are mentioned above, can and should be avoided. Each patient should be assessed for risk factors and have their own individual care plan. Basic health and safety procedures should be understood and in place by all members of staff. Nursing home abuse is a problem, but it is a problem that can be avoided.