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Studies show that patient falls are the most common cause of injuries in hospital and healthcare settings. Nearly one third of those falls result in serious injuries, which can lead to long-term effects like lost time from work, reduced quality of life and disability.
Falls occur most frequently in rehabilitation, neurology and eldercare departments. Falls are the leading cause of death in individuals age 65 and older, and 10% of those fatal falls occur in hospitals.
Hospitals and healthcare institutions have policies and procedures to identify the patients most at risk for falls. Measures are employed to prevent and reduce the risk of falls, including: screening patients for risk factors (such as blood clots or osteoporosis); identifying at-risk patients; assessing and modifying the environment for hazards; and training patients to properly use walkers, crutches, and other devices to help them walk.
If you or a loved one suffered a fall in a healthcare setting, contact Leonard Sciolla. Our attorneys have experience representing injured patients and their families in the healthcare setting. Contact John Leonard or Christopher Fleming in our Philadelphia office at (215) 567-1530, or call our New Jersey office at (856) 273-6679 for Greg Sciolla.
Published July 21, 2016
