Fall Prevention 

Fall Prevention 

A. Definition: Fall prevention involves identifying patients at risk for falls and implementing interventions to minimize the occurrence of falls and related injuries. 

B. Risk Assessment: 

1. Assessment Tools: Using validated tools, such as the Morse Fall Scale or Hendrich II Fall Risk Model, helps identify patients at risk for falls. 

2. Factors Contributing to Falls: Assessing factors such as advanced age, impaired mobility, history of falls, cognitive impairment, medications, and environmental hazards aids in determining fall risk. 

C. Interventions: 

1. Environmental Modifications: 

a. Removing obstacles and clutter: Ensuring clear pathways and removing tripping hazards reduces the risk of falls. 

b. Adequate lighting: Maintaining well-lit areas helps patients see potential hazards and improves safety. 

c. Grab bars and handrails: Installing grab bars in bathrooms and handrails along corridors and stairways provides support for patients. 

2. Assistive Devices: a. Mobility aids: Providing appropriate assistive devices, such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs, assists patients with impaired mobility. 

b. Alarms and sensors: Using bed or chair alarms, pressure sensors, or motion detectors alerts healthcare providers when patients attempt to rise unassisted. 

3. Patient Education: 

a. Teaching about fall risks: Educating patients and their families about fall risks and the importance of following safety measures. 

b. Call light usage: Encouraging patients to use call lights to request assistance before attempting to move independently. 

c. Footwear: Emphasizing the need for patients to wear proper footwear with good traction and support. 

D. Documentation: 

1. Accurate and thorough documentation of fall risk assessments, interventions implemented, patient responses, and any incidents or near-misses related to falls. 

2. Sharing information with the healthcare team to ensure continuity of care and appropriate interventions.