left haemothorax and rib fractures resulting from a fall at a residential aged care facility, with subsequent development of pneumonia
AI-generated summary
A 92-year-old man with multiple comorbidities (cardiac failure, COPD, chronic renal failure, diabetes) and documented high falls risk sustained a fall at a residential aged care facility on 12 May 2021, resulting in left haemothorax and rib fractures. He subsequently developed pneumonia and died on 30 May 2021. The coroner identified three significant gaps in falls prevention implementation: a non-functional sensor mat not repaired, the resident wearing inappropriate footwear (slides) despite clear physiotherapy recommendations for appropriate shoes/non-slip socks, and independent mobilisation not being prevented despite assessment requiring assistance. While overall physiotherapy follow-up was excellent, inconsistent implementation of falls prevention strategies in a very high-risk resident increased injury risk. The coroner recommended ensuring all falls prevention recommendations are consistently implemented at all times.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes. Report an inaccuracy.
non-functional sensor mat not repaired or replaced
resident wearing inappropriate footwear (slides) contrary to physiotherapy recommendations
independent mobilisation by resident despite assessment indicating need for assistance and supervision
kitchen staff failing to notify care staff of independent mobilisation
inconsistent implementation of falls prevention strategies
resident non-compliance with assistance-seeking behaviour
underlying comorbidities including congestive cardiac failure, COPD, chronic renal failure, type II diabetes, and history of recurrent falls
Coroner's recommendations
Japara Riverside Views ensure that in circumstances where a resident has been assessed as requiring a sensor mat, appropriate footwear/non-slip socks, and supervised mobility, such recommendations are implemented at all times
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