Seven Things About Contractures That Most Nursing Home Residents and Their Families Don’t Realize

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There are so many things that you need to think about when your loved one makes the transition into a nursing home. Is she getting the right medications at the right time? Is she getting enough to eat and drink? Are her medical needs being met? Is she safe?

There may be risks that you’ve never heard of before and that you need to understand to protect your loved one from injury or to protect her rights if she’s already been hurt.

One of Those Risks Is Contractures

Here are some things that you need to know about contractures and the harm that they could cause a nursing home resident. For example:

  • Contractures are a tightening of a muscle that prevents normal movement.
  • Contractures are painful.
  • Once a contracture develops, it is difficult to correct.
  • People with contractures and limited movement are at greater risk of developing bedsores and other dangerous complications.
  • Contractures may be prevented. For example, nursing home staff can do an evaluation to determine a patient’s risk of developing contractures and can create a care plan that addresses a resident’s individual risk.
  • The risk of contractures can be reduced when a resident is properly positioned and is provided with adequate and appropriate exercise. Splints may also be used to reduce contractures.
  • Contractures can develop in as little as one week and take a year or more to fix.

You also need to know what to do if your loved one suffers a contracture in a nursing home.

You Need to Help Her Protect Her Rights

Contractures occur quickly. If your loved one is in pain, if her mobility is limited, or if she develops a secondary condition such as a bedsore, then it is important to know what to do next.

Has Your Loved One Been Injured In A Nursing Home?

If you believe your loved one is being subjected to nursing home abuse you need to speak with an experienced Kentucky nursing home neglect attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our office directly at 888.450.4456 to schedule a free consultation.

Related Links:

Contractures Are a Risk for Nursing Home Residents

The Continuing Problem of Contractures for Nursing Home Residents

Lack of Exercise in Nursing Homes Could Lead to Contractures