Head Injury after Fall from Lift
In a report from the MDH it was alleged that a resident at Mayo Lake City (Mayo Clinic Health System Lake City) was neglected when they fell from a lift. The alleged perpetrator (AP), facility staff, neglected the resident when they failed to ensure the resident was transferred safely using an EZ way mechanical standing lift, and transferred the resident when she was unable to participate. As a result, the resident fell from the lift and sustained a head laceration which required staples.
MDH Substantiated Fall was Result of Neglect
The report from the state determined that neglect was substantiated. It states: “a preponderance of the evidence showed the AP was responsible for the maltreatment when they failed to follow the resident’s plan of care which instructed staff to adjust levels of care to meet the resident needs, resident’s plan of care which instructed staff to adjust levels of care to meet the resident’s needs, use two staff to transfer the resident when weak, and ensure proper placement on the harness safety belt prior to transferring to prevent injury. The AP transferred the resident independently using the mechanical standing lift when the resident was lethargic and not responding normally. The resident fell from the lift and was sent to the hospital with a head laceration which required staples.
There was Another Resident Who Fell from Bed
In another report from the MDH neglect was substantiated. The AP was responsible for the maltreatment. The AP failed to follow the resident’s plan of care to use two staff for assistance with turning. repositioning and incontinence cares. The AP failed to get another staff member to assist with resident cares. The AP independently rolled the resident in bed by pushing the resident away from himself, and the resident rolled off the side of the bed an onto the floor. The resident was transferred to the emergency department with a head and multiple bruising.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
If you have concerns about a Mechanical Patient Lift to a resident in a nursing home, assisted living, memory care, or other health care facility contact an attorney with three decades of experience for a free consultation at 612-743-9048.
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