A PENSIONER died of shock after suffering a broken leg, an inquest heard yesterday.
Edith Constance Bell, 78, from Shildon, died at Bethany House Nursing Home, in Newton Aycliffe, last November.
She was staying at the home for a week on respite care when she broke her femur.
Home manager Susan Foster told South Durham Coroner Colin Penna that two members of staff had taken Mrs Bell to the toilet and she lost her balance.
She said that she went to her aid when the emergency cord was pulled and that the two carers had eased Mrs Bell to the floor.
She said the pensioner showed no signs of bruising and had said she was not in pain.
Mrs Bell later enjoyed a game of dominoes and a visit from her husband before going to bed. She died the next day.
Mr Penna, sitting at Bishop Auckland Magistrates Court, recorded a verdict of accidental death.
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