| Learning Objective #1: n/a | |||
| Learning Objective #2: n/a |
Purpose
Over 50% of all falls in hospitals occur in persons over 65 years of age. For the older adult, injuries from falls may result in fractures, extended hospital stays, or decreased self-confidence and morale. Initiated by concerned nursing staff, an Interdisciplinary Fall Prevention team was formed on a 22 bed unit in a 252 urban hospital. Nurses, occupational, and physical therapists met and developed a protocol to reduce falls. Patients were assessed on admission using a fall assessment tool and a balance screen and categorized into two levels. Level 1 patients (low risk) received interventions that included attention to environment, medication review, visual checks, and orientation of patient and families to the environment. Level 2 patients (high risk) received more intensive interventions. Various types of signage were used. Frequent room checks were done. Motion devices and memory/ cognitive tools were used. Education brochures were developed for patients and families.
Analysis
Data were collected for the seven-month period (Time 1) preceding the program and for the nine period (Time 2) following implementation of the program. Time 1 patients compiled a total of 3838 patient days, with Time 2 patients compiling a total of 4639 patient days. The number of patient falls from Time 1 (1.41 falls per 1000 days) to Time 2 (0.71 falls per 1000 days) showed a dramatic and significant decrease (p < 0.01).
Discussion
As a result of the success of the program on the rehabilitation unit, plans are currently underway to expand the program to other units in the hospital. Modifications to the protocol are expected based on the diverse services in these units. On-going education will continue to be an integral part of the process and is expected to assist
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