Nursing home residents expect that the staff members will care for them in the way they need. One thing that this includes is ensuring the residents can remain as safe as possible. For some residents, that means implementing fall prevention measures.
In nursing homes, residents must be evaluated for fall risks. These can include specific factors, such as the resident’s medical diagnoses, medications and strength. If a resident has risk factors for falls, they should be placed into a fall prevention program.
Some people don’t realize that fall prevention has to be an ongoing process. Nursing home staff members should conduct periodic evaluations to determine if the resident is at more of a risk than before. This should be done on a set schedule, but it’s also necessary if there are changes in their status, such as a new medical diagnosis or medication.
What can be done to help residents who are at an increased risk of falling?
The terms of the resident’s fall prevention program depend on their abilities and limitations. Some residents may need to use a wheelchair or walker anytime they’re out of bed. Others may need assistance with certain activities, such as using the restroom. Ensuring that the resident and all staff members are aware of the resident’s fall risk is beneficial.
Nursing home residents who suffer an injury in falls should receive immediate medical care. That can be costly, so the resident may opt to pursue a compensation claim against the long-term care facility. It may be best for them to work with someone familiar with these matters so they can focus on overcoming their injuries while the person helping them can work on the case.
