When we place our elderly loved ones in nursing homes, we expect them to be cared for with dignity and compassion. However, the unfortunate reality is that nursing home injuries are a common occurrence in Georgia and across the nation. In many cases, these injuries can be a sign of negligence or even abuse. It is crucial to be aware of the common types of injuries that can occur in nursing homes and how they happen, to protect our loved ones and ensure they receive the care they deserve.
Falls
Falls are the most common type of nursing home injury. Elderly residents are at a higher risk of falling due to physical weakness, mobility problems, and health conditions like dementia. Inadequate staffing and lack of supervision can increase this risk. Serious injuries such as hip fractures, head injuries, and sprains can result from these falls.
Bedsores
Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, develop when an individual remains in one position for a prolonged period. They often occur in bedridden or wheelchair-bound residents who aren’t repositioned frequently. Bedsores can lead to severe infections if left untreated, indicating neglect in care.
Choking and Feeding Injuries
Elderly residents may have difficulty swallowing due to age or health conditions like Parkinson’s disease and stroke. If nursing home staff do not monitor meal times adequately or fail to provide appropriate food options, residents can choke or suffer from malnutrition and dehydration.
Overmedication and Medication Errors
Overmedication can lead to various injuries in nursing home residents, including confusion, dizziness, and falls. Alternatively, medication errors like incorrect dosages or wrong medication can have serious health consequences. These issues often arise from inadequate training, miscommunication, or negligence of the staff.
Infections
Elderly individuals are more susceptible to infections due to weakened immune systems. Infections can spread rapidly in a nursing home setting if proper hygiene and cleanliness protocols are not adhered to. Urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and sepsis are commonly seen in nursing homes.
Physical or Sexual Abuse
In the most appalling cases, nursing home residents may sustain injuries from physical or sexual abuse. These injuries can range from unexplained bruises, cuts, and burns to more severe injuries. Any suspicion of abuse should be reported immediately.
How to Prevent Nursing Home Injuries
Preventing nursing home injuries begins with choosing a reputable facility with well-trained, compassionate staff. A nursing home that is understaffed is a sign of potential problems. Regular visits can help monitor your loved one’s health and well-being. During these visits, be vigilant for signs of injuries or changes in behavior that could indicate neglect or abuse. Remember, our elderly loved ones have the right to safe and dignified care. Being informed about common nursing home injuries and how they occur is the first step in safeguarding their rights and well-being.
If you believe a loved one has suffered an injury or harm due to negligence or abuse in a nursing home, it’s crucial to take immediate action!. Report your concerns to the nursing home administration and contact the experienced nursing home injury lawyers at Dan Chapman & Associates. We have held nursing homes accountable for their negligence and abuse and have recovered millions of dollars for Georgia families because of injuries and harms suffered in a nursing home. If you don’t hold a nursing home responsible for these injuries and harms, how many more elderly residents will suffer? Contact Dan Chapman & Associates now at (678)242-7626 or at DanChapmanLaw.com for a free case consultation.
