It's About Justice

A leading medical malpractice and personal injury law firm for people
harmed through negligence.

  1. Home
  2.  » 
  3. Nursing Home Injury
  4.  » Has your elderly relative suffered a burn injury in nursing care? 

Has your elderly relative suffered a burn injury in nursing care? 

On Behalf of | Apr 22, 2022 | Nursing Home Injury

It was a difficult decision, but you’ve decided as a family to place your elderly relative in a nursing home. Ultimately, this decision is in their best interests. They can still lead a fulfilling life, but they can get assistance with the things they now struggle to do because of their advanced age. 

Nursing homes in the U.S. owe all residents a duty of care. Often, they adhere to this. Sadly, this is not always the case and your loved one could suffer injuries in a nursing home. 

The risk of fires 

Residents in some skilled care homes may still have access to cooking appliances. Wherever cooking is taking place, there is always a risk of fire. Smoking, by residents and staff, alike also presents a risk of fire. In fact, studies indicate that hundreds of fires occur every year in nursing home facilities. Many of these blazes result in serious injuries, and in extreme circumstances, fatalities. 

As far as possible, nursing homes attempt to emulate a home setting for vulnerable people. A balance must be struck between giving residents some independence while ensuring that they are safely supervised at all times. Rooms will still have electrical appliances, radiators and heaters and possibly candles. These are the most common causes of residential house fires, and they are also a significant danger in nursing home facilities. 

Before you commit to a facility, you should take your time and carry out thorough checks. You may be able to find out if a nursing home has a history of accidents, abuse or neglect. Unfortunately, no matter how thorough you are, facilities can still let your relatives down. If your loved one has been hurt while they should have been under supervision, be sure to explore your legal options

Archives

FindLaw Network