Staffing Shortages During Holidays Increase Risk of Traumatic Brain Injuries at Nursing

 Posted on December 21,2022 in Nursing Home Abuse

Head injuries are one of the biggest risks for the elderly in long-term care. Elderly individuals are frail and inherently susceptible to falling. It is no wonder people 75 years and older wind up hospitalized as a result of traumatic brain injuries or TBI. In 2019, more than 223,000 people were hospitalized with TBI. This is nursing home abuse that has no place in a facility where residents are supposed to be cared for and protected. If your loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury at a nursing home there are some legal options you should explore.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury or TBI?

TBI is an injury that affects how the brain works. It is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. A bump or a blow to the head can cause severe brain injuries that can be temporary or last forever.  

What Happens at Nursing Homes that Leads to TBI?

In the nation, one out of five people fall and either breaks their bones or injure their heads. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries. A fall can lead to health complications related to head injuries that can be serious and sometimes fatal. Even if a resident recovers, their life can be forever changed. Here are some reasons why nursing home residents sustain a TBI:

• Bed transfers are prime opportunities for a careless caregiver to drop someone

• Improper assistance going to the bathroom

• Shoes that do not fit properly

• Wandering residents who are lost

• Abusive caregiver who shakes or strikes a resident

• Medications that impact balance

• Tripping hazards such as wet floors, unlocked wheelchairs, and loose wires

The current staffing shortage is a serious problem across nursing homes in Illinois. Without enough workers, especially on nights or weekends, proper supervision of nursing home residents suffers.  

Establishing Liability

A nursing home may be liable for the injuries sustained by a resident if negligent actions either led to the injury or if proper protocol was not followed. Long-term care facilities are expected to monitor residents. They are also legally required to develop and implement care plans and update them as needed. Fall prevention procedures should be incorporated into those plans.

Contact a Cook County Nursing Home Lawyer

If you or a loved one has suffered traumatic brain injuries at a nursing home you may have some legal recourse. At Schwartz Injury Law, we believe that nursing homes are expected to know and monitor residents to prevent accidents and injuries. You need a Chicago nursing home abuse attorney who will try to hold those accountable and responsible. Call 312-535-4625 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/data/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/falls/facts.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557