A smoke break at a local nursing home took an unexpected turn when an argument between two residents erupted into a physical altercation that left staff scrambling to restore order.
According to police reports, nursing staff at a Portsmouth Nursing Home contacted officers to document the incident after two male residents got into a dispute outside the facility. One man reportedly ran over another resident’s foot with his wheelchair, sparking a shouting match that quickly escalated.
Witnesses told officers that one resident put the other in a headlock, and both began swinging punches before staff were able to separate them. In the process, one of the residents also struck a nursing aide.
Quick Response and Proper Reporting
Staff handled the situation immediately, separating those involved and ensuring no serious injuries occurred. The aide declined medical treatment, and the facility’s nurse contacted both law enforcement and state health officials as required by policy.
Officers noted that one of the residents involved suffers from dementia and other medical issues. The report was filed to ensure proper documentation and state oversight.
Why Incidents Like This Must Be Reported
Even minor altercations in nursing homes are taken seriously under Ohio law. Facilities are required to document and report any physical contact between residents or staff to protect everyone’s safety and maintain transparency.
In this case, the quick action by nursing staff and officers ensured the situation was handled safely and according to protocol.