Design: A descriptive correlational design was used. An adaptation of Andersen’s Behavior Model for Vulnerable Populations provided the theoretical framework.

Population, Sample, Setting, Years: Using a stratified random sample, 58 residents participated in the study, 28 of which had a history of falls. Twenty direct caregivers were also recruited to participate. The setting was a long-term state psychiatric treatment facility located in Northeast Florida. The study took place from 2002 to 2003.

Concept or Variables Studied Together or Intervention and Outcome Variable(s): A number of independent variables, such as age, BMI, perceived/documented deficits in physical health, severity of mental illness, number/types of psychotropic medications, and cardinal risk factors were analyzed in relationship to the outcome variable, incidence of falls.

Method: A negotiated model of needs assessment was implemented using a series of standardized instruments in a face-to-face interview format as well as clinical record review.

Findings: A significant difference was found between the two groups with regard to the number of psychotropic medications prescribed. Analyses of data revealed significant relationships between perceived deficits in physical health and the incidence of falls and between recorded medical deficits and the incidence of falls.

Conclusions: Although documented health deficits significantly correlated with the incidence of falls, Spearman correlation coefficient tests revealed a negative relationship between perceived health deficits and the incidence of falls.

Implications: Although residents receive an extensive array of services, little focus is placed on physical health. Nurses are in a position to prioritize health needs, which affect mental health outcomes.

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Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004