Unlike other types of accidents, falls are usually preventable with adequate and trained staff who properly care and monitor residents.  Chicago nursing home abuse attorneys have found that even if a fall is an accident, many nursing homes do not take necessary steps after the fall has taken place, a clear sign of Illinois nursing home neglect.

If a resident falls, he or she needs to be closely monitored by staff members of the nursing home.  The resident needs to be assessed by a physician or registered nurse versus an LPN or nursing assistant staff.  Close monitoring can result in diagnosing a problem related to the fall.  For example, a subdural hematoma could lead to brain swelling or death.  An assistant may not have the training to make this diagnosis.

Illinois nursing home negligence lawyers have represented clients who break a bone as the result of a fall.  Often times, the hip or knee breaks, resulting in the resident becoming bedridden or confined to a wheelchair.  When a resident loses mobility, other risk factors can develop such as bed sores or loss of muscle strength.  Fall injuries can lead to other serious consequences months after the initial incident.

Due to the serious possible repercussions of a resident falling, prevention is imperative.  Chicago nursing home abuse attorneys believe avoiding falls should be one of the primary focuses in the nursing home.  Staff members should consistently monitor the resident to determine the risks for falling along with taking interventions to reduce the risks of a fall incident.  The importance of being proactive increases if there is any change in a resident’s ability to physically function.  Assessments should be conducted by a qualified registered nurse.

If you or someone you love has suffered from a fall in a nursing home, it may be a sign of Illinois nursing home neglect.  Contact an Illinois nursing home negligence lawyer immediately.

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