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Choking: A Deadly Hazard for Nursing Home Residents

 Posted on May 17, 2023 in Neglect

Elmhurst Nursing Home Negligence Lawyers Assisting in Choking CasesFor most of us, eating is something that we do without giving it much thought. We may eat while watching TV, working, or even driving. However, the risk of choking while eating is always present, and this risk is especially severe for nursing home residents.

Residents in a nursing home are at an increased risk of injury or death caused by choking on food. Many residents are elderly and have reduced muscle mass which can make it difficult to swallow food. Others are on medication that causes dry mouth or other symptoms that make eating more challenging.

Nursing homes have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to prevent residents from choking. If a nursing home resident is injured or killed due to a choking incident, the nursing home may be liable for damages in a nursing home injury or death claim.

Preventative Measures Should Be Taken to Avoid Choking

Many nursing home residents suffer from a combination of physical health problems and cognitive decline caused by advanced age or dementia. Because of these issues, most residents require assistance during mealtimes. Nursing home staff should pay careful attention when feeding residents and supervising meals.

Nursing home staff should be trained on how to spot signs of choking and how to respond. It only takes a few minutes for brain damage to set in when a resident’s airway is blocked by food. There is literally no time to waste when it comes to choking.

Staff can also reduce the risk of choking by preparing meals in a way that makes the food easier to consume. Cutting food into very small pieces and avoiding tough or difficult-to-swallow foods can reduce the risk of choking substantially.

Medications and candy can also pose choking hazards for nursing home residents. Nursing homes should be extremely mindful of what they give residents. Something as seemingly innocent as giving a nursing home resident a hard candy could be a deadly mistake.

Legal Options After a Choking Incident

If your loved one suffered brain damage or other medical complications due to choking or passed away because of a choking incident, you may be able to hold the nursing home accountable for your loved one’s injury or death. Filing a claim against the nursing home may result in the recovery of monetary compensation for damages. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses, and more.

Contact our Chicago Nursing Home Injury Lawyer

If your loved one choked while staying in a nursing home, you may be able to take legal action against the nursing home. Our Elmhurst nursing home negligence attorneys can help you bring a claim against the facility and fight for justice on your loved one’s behalf. Call our skilled legal team to set up a free, no-obligation case assessment. Call 312-535-4625 today.

Source: 

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/choking-first-aid

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