Kankakee, Illinois Nursing Home Injury Lawyers
Experienced Nursing Home Negligence Attorneys Protecting Your Family in Kankakee, IL
Families entrust nursing with the care and well-being of elderly residents who may be vulnerable to injuries or other forms of harm. While these facilities are expected to provide a safe environment for their residents, there are far too many cases where injuries occur as the result of negligence or inadequate care. At Nursing Home Injury Center, our attorneys help families in Kankakee take action to hold nursing homes accountable for harm suffered by their loved ones. We work to make sure our clients will be able to receive financial compensation that addresses the injuries that have been caused by neglect, abuse, or other forms of negligence in nursing homes.
Common Nursing Home Injuries
Nursing home residents may experience a wide range of injuries that can have serious, long-lasting effects. These injuries may include:
- Head Injuries: Elderly nursing home residents are prone to falls, especially when they are not provided with the proper care and supervision. A fall can result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can cause memory loss, cognitive impairment, and other severe neurological issues. These injuries require immediate medical attention, as they can have life-threatening consequences.
- Back Injuries: Falls, improper lifting techniques, or inadequate assistance with mobility can lead to injuries affecting a person’s back and spine. A back injury can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and a diminished quality of life. Nursing home staff must be properly trained to assist residents in moving safely to prevent these or other injuries.
- Broken Bones: Hip fractures and other types of fractures often occur in nursing home falls. Elderly residents are at a higher risk of fractures due to osteoporosis and other age-related conditions that weaken bones. A broken bone can require surgery and extensive rehabilitation, and in some cases, it can lead to permanent disability. Falls are often preventable with proper supervision, mobility aids, and environmental modifications.
- Burns: Scalding water, hot surfaces, or fire hazards may cause nursing home residents to suffer serious burn injuries. These injuries may occur if patients are left unattended while bathing or if safety protocols are not followed. Burn injuries can be extremely painful, and they may lead to severe complications, especially in older adults who are prone to infection.
- Cuts and Bruises: Lacerations and other similar injuries may seem minor, but they can indicate larger issues within a nursing home that may affect the safety of patients. These injuries can result from rough handling, falls, or even altercations with other residents. While cuts and bruises may heal over time, they can also lead to infections, especially if proper wound care is not provided.
- Bedsores: These wounds, which are also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers, can develop when a nursing home resident stays in the same position without moving or being repositioned. These painful sores can become infected, and they lead to severe complications, including sepsis. Bedsores are entirely preventable with adequate care, regular repositioning, and attention to a resident’s needs. The presence of bedsores is often a sign of neglect.
- Infections: Nursing home residents are often more susceptible to infectious diseases due to weakened immune systems. Infections can result from unsanitary conditions, improper wound care, or exposure to contagious diseases. Common infections in nursing homes include urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory infections, and skin infections. Prompt medical treatment is crucial to prevent infections from becoming life-threatening.
- Choking: Nursing home residents who have swallowing difficulties or cognitive impairments may choke on food, medication, or other objects if they are not properly supervised during meals. Breathing tube injuries can also cause harm to patients by cutting off their oxygen supply. Choking can lead to brain damage, respiratory distress, or even wrongful death if not addressed immediately. Nursing homes must provide appropriate supervision and dietary modifications to prevent choking incidents.
- Seizures: Certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy or neurological disorders can lead to dangerous neurological events that can threaten the life of a nursing home patient. These events can be triggered by medication errors, lack of proper medical care, or underlying health issues. During a seizure, a resident is at risk of injury from falling or striking objects, making it essential for nursing home staff to be trained in seizure management and emergency response.
Contact Our Kankakee, IL Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Attorneys
When a loved one has been injured while receiving care in an assisted living facility, a family can take action to make sure negligence by the facility or its staff will be addressed correctly. The nursing home injury lawyers at Nursing Home Injury Center work to hold negligent nursing homes responsible for injuries to residents. We help families pursue justice and secure the compensation they deserve. Set up a free consultation by contacting us at 309-524-6900.
