Nursing Home Negligence Claims* Solicitors Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow & Nationwide

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Understanding Nursing Home Negligence

Nursing home accident claims are a growing area of concern, reflecting the vulnerability of residents and the responsibilities of care providers. Sherwin O’ Riordan Solicitors, with their expertise in personal injury and related fields, can assist individuals and families navigating these complex claims. This guide outlines key aspects of nursing home accident claims.

Common Types of Nursing Home Accidents

• Falls: Falls are a frequent cause of injury in nursing homes, often resulting from inadequate supervision, unsafe environments, or failure to assist residents with mobility issues.
• Medication Errors: Incorrect medication dosages, failure to administer medications, or medication interactions can lead to serious health consequences.
• Pressure Sores (Bedsores): These develop when residents are not properly repositioned or cared for, leading to skin breakdown and infection.
• Malnutrition and Dehydration: Failure to provide adequate food and fluids can result in serious health problems.
• Physical and Emotional Abuse: This can include physical assault, verbal abuse, or neglect that causes emotional distress.
• Concussions

Proving a Nursing Home Negligence Claim*

Nursing home negligence encompasses a range of failures in care that lead to resident injury or harm. These failures can be broadly categorized into two types:

Errors of Commission and Errors of Omission.

Deliberate actions that violate best practices are classified as Errors of Commission. Examples include physical or mental abuse, as well as administering incorrect medication.

Conversely, Errors of Omission refer to failures to act appropriately. This can manifest as neglecting to provide adequate food or drink, failing to prevent pressure sores, or not following established health and safety protocols.

Overall, both types of errors can have serious implications for the well-being of individuals in care and must be addressed.

The immediate aftermath of a nursing home accident requires swift action to protect your loved one and preserve potential legal claims.

1. Ensure Immediate Safety and Medical Attention: If the accident poses an immediate threat, contact the Gardai. Simultaneously, seek prompt medical attention for the injured resident. Document all injuries and gather medical records, as this documentation is crucial for legal proceedings.

2. Notify the Nursing Home Administration: Inform the nursing home administration about the fall or accident. This allows the facility to investigate the incident and take measures to prevent future occurrences. Your solicitor can help ensure the nursing home takes this seriously.

3. Document the Incident: Keep detailed records of the incident, including the date, time, and circumstances of the fall or accident. Note any contributing factors, such as wet floors, poor lighting, or lack of supervision. Take photographs or videos of the accident scene, focusing on any hazards that may have caused the incident. Also, document any changes in the resident’s condition or behaviour after the accident.

4. Gather Medical Documentation: Obtain copies of all medical records related to the fall, especially those detailing the injuries sustained. This includes doctor’s notes, X-rays, and reports of broken bones or other trauma. These documents are vital in demonstrating the severity and direct consequences of the fall.

5. Collect Witness Statements: Speak with residents, visitors, and staff who were present at the time of the incident. Their accounts can provide valuable perspectives on the conditions leading up to the fall and whether the nursing home was neglecting its duty of care.

6. Secure Incident Reports: Request a copy of the fall incident report from the nursing home administration. This report can provide an official account of the event and the measures that were taken immediately following the fall.

Time Limits for Claims*

It is crucial to be aware of the time limits for bringing a claim. In particular, in Ireland, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident or the date the injury was discovered. Therefore, it is important to act promptly to ensure your claim is valid.

Seeking Legal Advice

If you suspect that a loved one has been injured due to negligence in a nursing home, it is essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Specifically, Sherwin O’ Riordan Solicitors can provide guidance on your rights and options. Moreover, they will help you to navigate the legal process and pursue a claim for compensation effectively.

Speak with a Solicitor Today – Call 01 663 2000

Contact us today through our online contact form.

Sherwin O’ Riordan Solicitors, with their expertise in personal injury and medical negligence law, have experienced Solicitors to handle nursing home accident claims, providing essential support and legal representation to those affected by negligence.

With Sherwin O’ Riordan, you’re never just a case number, you’re a person with a story, and we’re here to make sure it’s heard.

* In contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.