What are the Causes of Slip & Falls in Nursing Homes?

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A slip and fall can happen to anyone at any time, leading to significant injuries. Unfortunately, slip and falls are common in nursing homes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, slip and falls are the leading cause of injuries and death in elderly Americans.

A nursing home is responsible to take appropriate measures for a safe environment, but accidents do occur and negligence can happen. If you or a loved one has suffered from a slip and fall at a nursing home, you could have a case on your hands where you could be awarded compensation.

Causes of a Slip & Fall

-       Wet and slippery floors

-       Cluttered walkways and hallways

-       Improper installation of rails

-       Failure to receive help when needed

-       Poor lighting

-       Improper equipment maintenance

-       Insufficient or inexperienced staff

Ways to Prevent a Slip & Fall

-       Proper assessment of each patient

-       Clear and safe walkways

-       Proper installation of handrails

-       Elevated toilets

-       Low beds

-       Frequent staffing and up-to-date training

When a slip and fall incident happens at a nursing home, they are responsible for evaluating incident history, examine charts and reviewing procedures.

What Do I Do if I Have Been Injured in a Slip & Fall?

Always report every slip and fall incident right away to the nursing home and seek medical assistance. Take any photos of the scene and document all details of the events. Seek legal advice so a thorough investigation is completed. Some cases are complex, but if any negligence was found to be the cause of the slip and fall, you could have a strong case.