Coroner's Finding: Paynter, Pamela

80y · Female·terminal exacerbation of congestive cardiac failure due to a fracture of the right neck of femur following a fall in the nursing home

An 80-year-old woman resident in an aged care facility fell in her room and sustained a neck of femur fracture. She was conscious after the fall with no evidence of head injury. She declined hospital transfer. A geriatrician assessed her and judged palliative care appropriate given her refusal of treatment and deteriorating state. She died 7 days later from terminal exacerbation of congestive cardiac failure secondary to the fracture. The coroner found falls risk assessment and prevention measures were appropriate, including call bell access, frequent checks, and documented low-risk status. No preventable factors were identified. The nursing home's proactive audit of falls assessments following a previous coronial investigation was commended.