Hip and Other Bone Fractures in Nursing Homes

Broken hips and hip fractures are injuries that substantially occur to the elderly. This is largely explained by the fact that bones grow weaker and more fragile as people age. In addition, hip fractures are most often the result of falls. Those with balance problems,...

Sepsis and Septic Shock

Sepsis or Septic Shock is a bacterial infection in the blood stream which generally is the product of an infection there or elsewhere in the body. It is a serious medical condition which can lead to death. The elderly, including nursing home residents, are especially...

Fall Injuries at Nursing Homes

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that about 1,800 older adults die annually in the U.S. as a result of falls occurring in nursing homes. Many others who survive falls sustain hip fractures or head injuries that leave them permanently disabled. The...

Physical Abuse in Nursing Homes

Intentional physical abuse of nursing home residents is more prevalent than most anyone would expect. Federal and state laws intended to prevent such abuse are not greatly effective at doing so. Staff members who were improperly hired, poorly trained or inadequately...

Medication Errors and Chemical Restraints

Medication-caused illnesses and injuries in nursing homes and other care facilities generally occur in one of two ways: Medication Errors—Mistakes result from failure to follow doctor’s orders, pharmaceutical manufacturer’s instructions, or accepted professional...