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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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After A Fall, What Is An Advisable Position For An Octogenarian?

My 89-year old mother fell and hit her head face front on the floor. We took her to emergency. CT scan shows no changes. She never lost consciousness, and is responsive. No broken bones. Just a huge bubble/lump on her forehead, with a slight open wound in the middle of the lump. They released her, and now she s home. Question: Is it okay for her to lie down and go to sleep, or is it safer to have her sit upright to sleep tonight?
Sat, 29 Mar 2014
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Pain Medicine & Palliative Care Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,
Any position will be safe to sleep. However, a head up position will reduce any further swelling. I suggest she sleeps in bed propped up with pillows.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB. FRCA.
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After A Fall, What Is An Advisable Position For An Octogenarian?

Hi, Any position will be safe to sleep. However, a head up position will reduce any further swelling. I suggest she sleeps in bed propped up with pillows. Regards, Dr K A Pottinger, MBChB. FRCA.