If your family is dealing with a recent fall, start with three priorities:
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Get immediate medical evaluation Even “minor” falls can lead to serious complications—especially head injuries, fractures, dehydration, or internal bleeding risks. Ask clinicians to document symptoms and suspected causes.
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Request the incident documentation from the facility Don’t rely on what you’re told verbally. Ask for the written incident report, shift notes, and any fall-risk or care plan updates tied to the event.
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Create a timeline while details are still fresh Note the date/time, location in the facility, what staff reported, what the resident was doing right before the fall (toileting, transfer, ambulation), and any changes afterward (sleepiness, confusion, mobility decline).
If you’re contacted by the facility or their insurer, it’s smart to pause before giving a recorded statement. In Colorado, early communications can become part of the record—so families should protect accuracy.


