Hot Liquid Scalding Burns Are Preventable
Scalding Burn Injury Attorney. Scalding and hot water burn injuries occur to residents in nursing homes and other care facilities in two main ways. Serious injuries can occur when a president is placed in a shower or bath which has a temperature in excess of 100° Fahrenheit. The hotter the water the shorter the time period for any resulting burn. These injuries happen when residents receive showers and foot baths and the temperature is not properly monitored. Another common way comfortable adults are injured due to hot water is from hot coffee and tea spills. It is the standard safety practice to use a cup with a safety lid to assure that the hot liquids do not spill. Further the coffee should be served at a safe temperature avoiding the risk of injury in the event it would spill. Scalding and hot water burn injuries are some of the more preventable forms of elder neglect. Unfortunately the result of skulls and burns can be some of the most extreme injuries causing horrific pain and suffering for the victims.
Hot Water Can Cause Permanent Third-Degree Burns in Seconds
According to the State Operating Manual (SOM) for CMS Medicare Medicaid, Water Temperature – Water may reach hazardous temperatures in hand sinks, showers, tubs, and any other source or location where hot water is accessible to a resident. Burns related to hot water/liquids may also be due to spills and/or immersion. Many residents in long-term care facilities have conditions that may put them at increased risk for burns caused by scalding. These conditions include: decreased skin thickness, decreased skin sensitivity, peripheral neuropathy, decreased agility (reduced reaction time), decreased cognition or dementia, decreased mobility, and decreased ability to communicate. 10 19F The degree of injury depends on factors including the water temperature, the amount of skin exposed, and the duration of exposure.
Some States have regulations regarding allowable maximum water temperature. Table 1 illustrates damage to skin in relation to the temperature of the water and the length of time of exposure.
Contact an Experienced Attorney to Discuss Your Case
If you have concerns about burn injuries including scalding water and steam burns or other care issues in a nursing home or assisted living facility contact attorney Kenneth LaBore for a free consultation at 612-743-9048.
