When it comes to finding a nursing home for your loved one, there are many to choose from. These facilities provide 24-hour skilled nursing care, assistance with the tasks of daily living, supervision and assistance with medication, housekeeping and meal services, and opportunities to socialize with others. Some facilities may even provide specialized services, such as dementia care, while other nursing homes offer services related to a specific religion or cultural need.
One of the most common types of injuries that can occur in nursing homes involves resident falls. While it is commonly believed that falls are a natural part of aging, falls in Pittsburgh nursing homes may be a result of negligence. If your loved one has been injured in this way, they may be eligible to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.
Why Nursing Home Falls are Commonly a Sign of Negligence
Federal and state laws require that all nursing facilities perform an evaluation on new residents that includes an assessment of how likely they are to fall. The results of this assessment may impact the type of care that is provided to the resident, as those at high risk of falling must have fall prevention measures listed in their care plan, including supervision and lifts. When your loved one falls in their nursing home and sustains an injury, requires medical intervention, or experiences changes in their physical or mental status, Pittsburgh staff are required to promptly report the incident to the appropriate state authorities as well as to your family.
The term “negligence” is used to refer to the failure of an individual or a facility to provide the level of care that a staff member or facility in a similar position would have provided. Because there are laws in place regarding fall prevention, nursing home staff who fail to provide a fall assessment and incorporate fall prevention into the care plan of someone at risk of falling could be held legally responsible for the resulting financial, physical, and psychological impacts of a fall. Some of the common impacts faced after a nursing home fall include medical expenses, the cost of relocation to a new facility, physical pain and suffering, and other quality-of-life impacts.
What Can You Do If Your Loved One Was Injured in a Nursing Home Fall
When your loved one is injured due to a nursing home fall, you and your family may be unsure as to what to do. Seeking immediate medical attention is essential, as is documenting the situation, including how the fall reportedly happened, the date and location in the facility where it occured, and which staff members were on duty at the time. It is also important to talk with an experienced Pittsburgh nursing home falls lawyer who could provide additional information and guidance about the personal injury claims process.
For More Information About Falls in Pittsburgh Nursing Facilities, Contact Bordas & Bordas Attorneys, PLLC
If your loved one was injured due to falls in Pittsburgh nursing homes, you may feel overwhelmed and angry. It can be difficult to understand what legal options are available and how to get the help your loved one needs. Let our legal team evaluate your case for free and provide you with answers to the questions you have. Contact us today to get started.
