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Deadly Falls

Part 1: Deadly falls

More than 100 Minnesotans die each year after suffering falls in nursing homes. Few deaths are fully investigated by the state, and serious penalties for violations are rare. Updated: Mar. 22, 2011 - 02:46 PM

Project: Deadly Falls

Last of 3 parts: No easy solutions

Some say more staffing, better training would help reduce falls. Updated: Mar. 22, 2011 - 02:47 PM

Part 2: Sanctions not tough

Few fall-related deaths are fully investigated by state regulators. This is the second part of a three-part series. Part 1: Deadly falls Updated: Mar. 22, 2011 - 02:47 PM

More than 100 Minnesotans die each year after suffering falls in nursing homes. Few deaths are fully investigated by the state, and serious penalties for violations are rare.

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A shocking fall, a painful end - but 'no further action'
Article By: PAM LOUWAGIE ,Star Tribune Publish November 17, 2009 2:00 AM / Update March 22, 2011 2:48 PM
Despite alarms in place and a staff on alert, Lois Swanson suffered serious injuries in a fall and died 10 days later.

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related content

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A closer look at deaths related to nursing home falls 2002-2008

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Falls reported to the state

Marcus Woel, 94, uses Nautilus gym equipment for strength training.

An innovative approach to making homes safer
Article By: PAM LOUWAGIE and GLENN HOWATT , Star Tribune s taff w riters Publish November 17, 2009 2:00 AM / Update March 22, 2011 2:49 PM
A St. Cloud nursing home has reduced falls with high-tech gear, individualized care plans and consistent staffing.

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A broken neck - and no clear answers
Article By: GLENN HOWATT , Star Tribune Publish November 16, 2009 2:00 AM / Update March 22, 2011 2:50 PM
A finding of maltreatment was dropped after nursing home appealed.

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Alarms sounded, but no one was there to hear them
Article By: PAM LOUWAGIE , Star Tribune Publish November 16, 2009 2:00 AM / Update March 22, 2011 2:50 PM
Despite a bed alarm and other safeguards, Rudella Reiners, 89, got up undetected, fell and broke her hip. She died five days later.

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Tips for finding a good home
Publish November 13, 2009 2:00 AM / Update March 22, 2011 2:51 PM
To find a good home, check records and talk to residents

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Nancy Barnes: When death comes without dignity
Publish November 15, 2009 2:00 AM / Update March 22, 2011 3:02 PM
A Star Tribune report documents a troubling pattern in nursing homes.

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How the data were analyzed
Publish November 15, 2009 2:00 AM / Update March 22, 2011 3:01 PM

HOW THE DATA WERE ANALYZED

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