Nursing home residents move into facilities because they need assistance with daily life activities. Each resident has their own specific needs that must be met by staff members. Those are clearly documented in the resident’s chart.
One specific risk that must be mitigated is the risk of falling. Because a resident’s abilities can change often, it’s critical that nursing home staff members conduct fall risk assessments on a regular basis.
What is a fall risk assessment?
A fall risk assessment looks into a resident’s condition and medication list to determine what type and level of mobility assistance they need. If the person is at risk of falling, they should be deemed a fall risk. This sets certain standards in place so the resident can have assistance to prevent falls.
There are a variety of measures that a nursing home can employ to help keep residents safe from falls. Non-slip flooring, especially on sloped surfaces and steps, and handrails are critical throughout the facility. Providing walkers, wheelchairs and lifts can also reduce the risk of falls. In some cases, residents may need physical assistance getting around, so that would fall on the nurses and nursing assistants.
Falls in nursing homes are highly dangerous because residents are often elderly and frail. Certain medications may decrease bone strength. Broken bones, including the hip, can be devastating to these individuals. Recovery might be difficult and lengthy.
Victims of falls that are the result of nursing home negligence may opt to pursue a compensation claim to help them cover the expenses related to the injury. These cases can be complex, so they may need the assistance of someone familiar with these matters.
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