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3 Questions to Ask About Traumatic Brain Injuries in Iowa Nursing Homes

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Posted by Pressley Henningsen

After your loved one has fallen in an Iowa nursing home, you may be concerned about broken bones or serious bruises.  But you should also be aware that they may have suffered a traumatic brain injury.  Here are 3 simple questions you’ll need the answer to if you suspect a potential brain injury.

1. What is a traumatic brain injury?

A traumatic brain injury usually results from a violent blow or jolt that causes damage to the brain.  A common myth is that someone has to hit their head to suffer a brain injury.  This is not true – you do not have to hit your head to suffer a brain injury.  A simple jolt to the body is enough to cause damage.  Even if your loved one has not hit their head in a fall, they could have still suffered injury to the head or brain.

There are a couple of signs of a brain injury that you can watch out for in your loved one.  These include:

  • Confusion, forgetfulness, or agitation that was not present before the fall
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Changes in mood or personality
  • Slurred speech

If your loved one is exhibiting any of these symptoms, they need to see a doctor as soon as possible.  If traumatic brain injuries are not treated, they can lead to permanent damage or even death.  Even “mild” traumatic brain injuries, like concussions, need to be treated quickly and appropriately.

2. How does a brain injury happen in an Iowa nursing home?

Brain injuries are common injuries in nursing homes.  Residents are more at-risk for falling and hurting themselves for a variety of reasons such as being overmedicated, environmental hazards like slippery floors or bad lighting.

Falls also occur because of staff inattentiveness – specifically because of understaffing at a facility.  Staff members are so overworked that they don’t have time to help each resident with all their needs.  This means residents may try to get up on their own to go to the bathroom or reach a glass of water, which can lead to them falling – and to a potential brain injury.

3. Do you need to hire an Iowa nursing home abuse attorney?

Accidents happen.  Sometimes residents get hurt despite staff doing their best to prevent it.  However, there are other times when brain injuries happen because of staff neglect or abuse.  If you believe your loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury because of neglect or abuse, it’s a good idea to speak with a knowledgeable Iowa nursing home attorney.  An attorney can analyze the situation and give you advice on what to do next.

If you would like a free, no-obligation case evaluation by one of our experienced Iowa nursing home abuse attorneys, call RSH Legal today at 1-319-774-1783.

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