A subdural hematoma, commonly referred to as a brain bleed, is a serious medical condition where blood collects beneath the dura mater, a protective membrane between the brain and the skull. This type of brain bleed is often the result of trauma, such as a fall injury or being dropped, and is not a natural part of brain degeneration.
In elderly individuals, even minor head injuries can cause subdural hematomas due to the brain's natural shrinkage and the increased fragility of blood vessels. When a nursing home resident experiences a subdural hematoma, it raises significant concerns about the quality of their care.
There are three common types of subdural hematoma, each with a distinct clinical manifestation:
An acute subdural hematoma is a medical emergency that occurs rapidly after a significant head injury. This type of subdural hematoma is characterized by a sudden onset of severe symptoms.
Acute subdural hematomas present with confusion, slurred speech, severe headache, drowsiness, and a rapid decline in neurological function. The immediate onset of these symptoms following trauma necessitates urgent medical attention.
Acute subdural hematomas typically result from significant trauma to the head, such as a fall, being dropped, or a blow to the head. In nursing home settings, inadequate supervision or physical abuse can lead to these serious injuries.
Immediate surgical intervention is often necessary to remove accumulated blood and alleviate brain pressure. Delaying treatment can result in severe brain damage or death, underscoring the urgency of medical intervention.
Subacute subdural hematomas develop more slowly than acute ones, with symptoms appearing days to weeks after the initial injury.
The gradual onset of symptoms includes confusion, slurred speech, and cognitive impairment. These symptoms develop over several days or weeks, often making them less immediately noticeable.
Subacute subdural hematomas are usually caused by moderate head trauma, such as a minor fall or bump to the head. In nursing home residents, these injuries can occur from seemingly minor accidents.
Treatment may involve surgical intervention if the hematoma grows or symptoms worsen. In some cases, careful monitoring and non-surgical management might be appropriate if the patient’s condition is stable.
Chronic subdural hematomas progress gradually over time, frequently seen in older adults with factors like brain shrinkage or the use of blood-thinning medications.
Signs of chronic subdural hematomas begin slowly with confusion, memory issues, headaches, and cognitive decline. These symptoms can be confused with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between these conditions.
Chronic subdural hematomas can result from minor head traumas or occur spontaneously. The natural aging process, which causes the brain to shrink and blood vessels to become more fragile, increases the risk of chronic hematomas in older adults.
Depending on the severity and progression, treatment options range from surgical intervention to relieve pressure to conservative management with regular monitoring. If the hematoma is stable and not causing severe symptoms, doctors may opt for a non-surgical approach.
Nursing homes bear a critical responsibility to provide continual care and support to their residents. When they fall short of this duty, residents can suffer serious injuries, such as subdural hematomas.
Examples of neglect leading to brain bleeds include:
Detailed documentation of every resident interaction, including checks, meals, and assistance, serves as crucial evidence. Accident reports, facility inspections, and medical records can substantiate claims of negligence. If neglect results in a subdural hematoma, prompt medical attention should be sought, and transferring the patient may be necessary.
If your loved one developed a brain bleed at a nursing home due to neglect, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Here are the steps to take for seeking compensation:
Filing a lawsuit involves navigating through intricate legal procedures with strict deadlines. A lawyer can assist you throughout the process, ensuring that evidence is preserved and witness testimonies are secured promptly.
Damages in such cases encompass the losses incurred following the injury, and compensation may include:
In exceptional cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant for gross negligence or willful misconduct.
When it comes to nursing home injuries like severe brain injuries, you need a law firm with a proven track record and dedication.
Led by an attorney recognized as Trial Lawyer of the Year by both the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association (2022) and the Ventura County Trial Lawyers Association (2021), Susan Kang Gordon, A Professional Law Corporation brings a history of success and commitment to each case.
We provide personalized, compassionate legal support, guaranteeing that every client receives the attention they deserve. Choose us for legal representation and firm advocacy.
