Bedrails are commonly used in nursing homes to provide support and prevent falls among residents. However, when used improperly or negligently, bedrails can lead to serious injuries. Contact a qualified lawyer if your loved one has been impacted by an injury at their nursing facility involving a bedrail. Your loved one may be eligible for compensation. However, you will not know for sure unless you contact an Illinois attorney and pursue an injury case.
Entrapment and Strangulation
Entrapment is one of the most significant risks associated with bedrails, which occurs when a resident’s body or limbs become trapped between the bedrail and the mattress. This can lead to severe injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue injuries. In some cases, entrapment can also result in strangulation, where the resident’s neck becomes caught in the bedrail, leading to asphyxiation, a potentially fatal consequence.
Falls and Impact Injuries
Bedrails are intended to prevent falls but can also contribute to injuries if not used properly. If bedrails are not securely attached or if the resident is not correctly positioned within the bed, they may attempt to climb over or around the rail, leading to falls. These falls can result in all sorts of injuries, like fractures, head injuries, and other impact-related injuries. Additionally, bedrails may become loose or unstable, increasing the risk of falls and injuries if they are not regularly inspected and maintained.
Pressure Ulcers and Skin Injuries
Improperly used bedrails can also contribute to the development of pressure ulcers, commonly known as bedsores. When residents are confined to their beds for extended periods, bedrails can create pressure points on the body, leading to skin breakdown and the formation of painful ulcers. If bedrails are not adjusted or padded appropriately, they can cause friction and shearing forces, further exacerbating the risk of skin injuries.
Psychological and Emotional Impact
In addition to physical injuries are the emotional and psychological effects on nursing home residents, which can be just as debilitating as some physical injuries. Additionally, using bedrails can restrict a resident’s freedom of movement and create feelings of confinement and isolation. This can lead to intense anxiety and depression, leading to a possible decline in the person’s overall well-being. Nursing homes must consider the psychological impact of bedrail usage and ensure that residents’ emotional needs are met.
Contact a Peoria, IL Nursing Home Injury Lawyer
If your loved one has suffered a bedrail injury, the experienced Peoria County, IL nursing home injury attorneys with Nursing Home Injury Center can help. Contact us at 309-524-6900 for a free consultation.
