Brain and Head Injuries in Nursing Homes
Author: Cullan and Cullan M.D., J. D.
Published: 2010/10/31
Peer-Reviewed: N/A
On This Page: Summary - Main Article
Synopsis: Brain injuries disability and death among nursing home residents can occur with oxygen deprivation due to choking or smothering drug overdose or a lack of supplemental oxygen. Questions about Brain and Head Injuries - Brain and head injuries can result in severe disability and wrongful death in the vulnerable nursing home resident. Many head trauma and brain injury cases are reported each year in the United States.
advertisement
Main Digest
Questions about Brain and Head Injuries - Brain and head injuries can result in severe disability and wrongful death in the vulnerable nursing home resident. Many head trauma and brain injury cases are reported each year in the United States.Experts agree enough is not being done to protect vulnerable elderly residents of nursing facilities. Many of these injuries could be prevented with greater supervision.
What can cause head trauma or brain injury among nursing home patients
Falls
Improper transfer of patient
Lack of oxygen to the brain
Physical abuse
Many falls and transfer injuries could be avoided with greater patient supervision. Federal law states that proper assistive devices, such as wheelchairs and walkers, must be provided. Patients who cannot move freely must be properly supervised. When transferring a patient, adequate equipment and staffing can make the difference between a smooth transfer and an injured patient. As more acutely ill patients are cared for in nursing homes across the country, these issues become critical to a safe environment.
Brain injuries, disability and death among nursing home residents can occur with oxygen deprivation due to choking or smothering, a drug overdose, or a lack of supplemental oxygen. Medication errors can also lead to brain injury.
Nursing home employees are people. Sometimes, they feel frustrated. Occasionally, they strike out against nursing home patients and cause injury by striking, smothering or shaking the elderly individual, sometimes causing severe disability or death.
How often do falls occur and how can they be prevented
On average, nursing home residents experience 2.6 falls per year. Approximately 10% to 20% of nursing home falls result in serious injuries. Approximately, 1,800 nursing home residents die each year as a result of these falls. (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Prevention includes better supervision and adherence to laws designed to protect the elderly living in nursing homes.
What should I do if I suspect head trauma and brain injury in my loved one
Unlike many other types of injuries, detecting a brain injury can be complex, since symptoms are subtle. If a loved one has been injured or has died due to nursing home abuse and neglect, consult an experienced nursing home abuse and neglect attorney to learn more about your legal options.
In Phoenix, Arizona, please visit the website of lawyers are also doctors with extensive medical backgrounds at Cullan and Cullan M.D., J. D. for a confidential, no-cost consultation. Website: www.stopnursinghomeabuse.org
advertisement
Discover Related Topics ▶ Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer Disabled World is an independent disability community founded in 2004 to provide disability news and information to people with disabilities, seniors, their family and/or carers. See our homepage for informative reviews, exclusive stories and how-tos. You can connect with us on social media such as X.com and our Facebook page. Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/health/neurology/tbi/tbi-homes.php">Brain and Head Injuries in Nursing Homes</a> Cite This Page (APA): Cullan and Cullan M.D., J. D.. (2010, October 31). Brain and Head Injuries in Nursing Homes. Disabled World. Retrieved December 6, 2023 from www.disabled-world.com/health/neurology/tbi/tbi-homes.php
Share This Information To:
𝕏.com Facebook Reddit
Disabled World provides general information only. Materials presented are never meant to substitute for qualified professional medical care. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.