Persons older than 65 are at risk for falls because the risk of falling increases with age

True 

False

• In a patient or residents'room and in bathroom 
• Between 1800 (6:00pm) and 2100 (9:00pm)
• During shift changes 

1. What things would you like near you
2. Can you reach the signal light
3. Can you reach your cane
4. Do you need to use the bathroom now
5. IS there anything esle you need before I leave the room ?

FACTORS INCREASING THE RISK OF FALLS

IN A CARE SETTING INCLUDE:

• Bed- incorrent height
• Care equipment : IV Poles drainage tube, bags and other
• Cluttered floor
• Furniture out-of-place
• Lightning - poor
• Setting - strange and unfamiliar
• Throw rugs
• Wet and slipper floors, bathtubs and showers

Alcohol over use;  Disorientation

Balance problems; Confusion

Blood pressure high or low

Confusion;  Depression 

Diziness :dizziness on standing

Drug side effects ( can include poor coordination insteadiness, frequent urination, fainting, drowsiness)

Elimination needs, vision problems

History of Falls; Muscle weakness,decreased mobility, poor judgement, light headedness, shoes that fit properly, improper use of wheelchair, canes, crutches

Slow reation time, memory problems, incontinence,

joint pain and stifness ,weakness, foot problems

SAFETY MEASURES TO PREVENT FALLS 

INCLUDES:

BASIC NEEDS ARE MET - fluids, eyeglasess, hearing aids, tasks are explained before performed.  Help is given with elimination needs, bedpan is within reach, properly positioned in bed or chair. Correct procedures are used for transfers. Person is involved in meaningful activities. 

BATHROOMS AND SHOWER/TUB ROOMS- Non slip surfaces, grab bars are in showers also by toilet and tub. Shower chairs used safety measured for tub baths are followed.

FLOORS- Scatter,area or throw rugs are not used. Floor,stairs free of clutter, and spills. Put Wet Floor signs  when there is a spill and wipe up at once. No excess furniture or electrical and extension cords in the way. Equipment and supplies to the sie of the hallway

FURNITURE - placed for easy movement, kept in place not rearaanged, chairs have armrest for support when standing. Phone lamp personal belongings are within reach.

BED AND OTHER EQUIPMENT-Bed in lowest horizontal position except when giving bedside care, bed rails used according to care plan. Crutches cane have non skid tip, linens are checked for sharp objects

LIGHTING  Rooms hallways bathroom have good light, light switches are within reach

SHOES AND CLOTHING - Non skid footwear is worn, socks bedroom slippers long laces are avoided, clothing is not loose does not drag on the floor 

SIGNAL LIGHTS AND ALARMS-person is taught how to use the light, always within reach. The person is asked to call for assistance when getting out of bed or chair with walking going to from bathroom , Signal lights should be answered promptly

OTHER - Use of color coded bracelets to indicate a person with fall risk 

THE NURSE OR CARE PLAN TELLS YOU WHEN TO RAISE BED RAILS 

TRUE 

FALSE

• IF THE PERSON CANNOT GET OUT OF BED 
• THE PERSON CANNOT LOWER THEM WITHOUT HEKP

A HISTORY OF FALLS INCREASED THE RISK OF FALLING AGAIN 

TRUE 

FALSE 

BED WHEELS MUST BE LOCKED AT ALL TIMES EXCEPT WHEN MOVING THE BED

TRUE

FALSE

THE TRANSFER BELT IS UNSAFE FOR PERSONS WITH CERTAIN CONDITIONS INVOLVING THE CHEST OR ABDOMEN

TRUE

FALSE