What to Do If Your Loved One Falls in a Nursing Home

 
Falls in nursing homes are not always accidents—they’re often signs of neglect or unsafe conditions. If your loved one has fallen in a long-term care facility, taking immediate steps can protect their health and legal rights. 

Why Nursing Home Falls Matter 

Each year, thousands of nursing home residents are injured in preventable falls. In Oklahoma: 

• A majority of facilities in Oklahoma were cited for deficiencies in 2024 

• Oklahoma ranks among the worst states for nursing home safety  

Falls can cause broken bones, head trauma, and even death. If proper care and precautions weren’t in place, your loved one may be a victim of nursing home negligence. 

What to Do After a Nursing Home Fall 

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Insist on a full medical evaluation, even if your loved one appears uninjured. Common fall-related injuries include: 

• Hip fractures 

• Head trauma and concussions 

• Internal bleeding 

• Broken bones 

Ensure that all injuries and treatments are documented. This medical record can be crucial evidence in a nursing home negligence claim. 

2. Document the Scene

Gather all possible evidence: 

• Take photos of the injuries and the area where the fall occurred. 

• Request the incident report from the nursing home. 

• Write down the date, time, and any known circumstances surrounding the fall. 

• Get names of staff members who were present or notified. 

3. Ask Tough Questions

• Was your loved one being supervised? 

• Were safety measures in place (bed rails, mats, alarms)? 

• Did the staff respond quickly? 

Avoid vague or dismissive responses—they can indicate a deeper issue. 

4. Report the Fall

If you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect in Oklahoma, file a report with: 

• Oklahoma State Department of Health: 1-800-747-8419 

• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: www.okdhs.org 

These organizations investigate complaints and can take enforcement actions against facilities that violate the law. 

5. Talk to an Oklahoma Nursing Home Neglect Attorney

If your loved one’s fall was due to lack of supervision, poor staffing, or ignored safety protocols, contact an attorney. A skilled lawyer can: 

• Investigate the facility’s history of complaints 

• Review your loved one’s care records 

• Consult medical experts to determine if protocols were violated 

• Pursue compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, or wrongful death 

Protecting Your Loved One Starts Now 

At Ball Morse Lowe, we stand up for families whose loved ones have suffered due to nursing home falls and neglect in Oklahoma. We understand how devastating these incidents can be—and how hard it is to get honest answers from care facilities. 

Let us help you uncover the truth, protect your family, and fight for justice. 

Contact us today for a free consultation.