Sending a loved one to a nursing home is one of the most difficult, yet important, decisions you can ever make. Thus, when you send your loved one to a nursing home, you trust that they will get the best possible care during their twilight years.
Unfortunately, nursing home injuries are quite widespread throughout the U.S. Due to their compromised support and balance systems, older people tend to be extremely vulnerable to injuries. An injury that would otherwise heal on its own can lead to more serious complications resulting in the victim’s death.
If a loved one’s death is attributable to the nursing home’s negligent actions or inaction, you may pursue the facility for damages. Some of the most common causes of litigation include:
1. Spinal cord injuries
Seniors tend to be highly susceptible to spinal cord injuries, especially after a fall. Spinal injuries can trigger other complications such as paralysis and pneumonia and respiratory issues. Left unattended, these complications can lead to death. Common causes of spinal injuries in nursing homes include:
- Trip, slip and fall accidents
- Caregivers accidentally dropping residents during transportation
- Residents lacking proper mobility aids
- Abusive caregivers who mistreat residents
2. Fractures and broken bones
The risk of slip-and-fall accidents is usually higher in nursing homes thanks to age-related issues like impaired vision and poor balance. When residents are left unattended, they may suffer fractures and broken bones when they slip and fall. These injuries can give way to other complications that may lead to death.
Fractures to the skull, for instance, can result in brain damage. And this can lead to death if the patient does not receive immediate and proper treatment.
Nursing home negligence can lead to devastating consequences. Find out how you can pursue justice if your loved one sustains a preventable injury while under the care of the nursing home.
