Hospital falls, defined as an unplanned descent to the floor with or without injury, are a significant patient safety concern within healthcare facilities. These incidents pose a substantial challenge to patient well-being and healthcare systems. Preventing falls is an important aspect of patient care, contributing to better outcomes and overall efficiency.
Understanding the Numbers
Approximately 700,000 to 1 million patient falls occur in U.S. hospitals each year. These incidents are the most commonly reported adverse events in healthcare settings. Around 2% of hospitalized patients experience at least one fall during their stay. Between 30% and 50% of these falls result in physical injury; about one in four falls leads to an injury, with approximately 10% causing serious injuries like fractures or head trauma. The financial burden is significant, as falls increase costs for hospitals.
Why Falls Happen
Multiple factors contribute to patient falls in hospitals. Patient-related risk factors include advanced age, medication side effects (e.g., sedatives, antidepressants), and existing mobility issues. Cognitive impairments like dementia or delirium also increase susceptibility. Underlying medical conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or arthritis can further compromise balance and stability.
Environmental factors also play a role. Unfamiliar surroundings can disorient patients, increasing their risk. Physical hazards include slippery floors, inadequate lighting, or obstacles in walkways. Poorly placed furniture or inaccessible call bells can lead patients to move unassisted, elevating fall risk.
Consequences of Falls
Hospital falls lead to various negative outcomes. Physical injuries range from soft tissue damage to severe fractures and head trauma. Falls can also result in other adverse events, such as pressure injuries or infections, prolonging recovery. Even falls without physical harm can cause emotional distress and anxiety, potentially leading to a fear of falling and reduced activity.
Falls often increase hospital stay length, as patients require additional injury care. This extended hospitalization contributes to higher healthcare costs. In severe cases, falls can result in disability or even contribute to mortality.
Strategies for Prevention
Hospitals employ various strategies to reduce patient falls. A primary approach involves conducting a fall risk assessment upon admission to identify high-risk patients. Tools like the Morse Fall Scale or the Hendrich II Fall Risk Model help evaluate factors such as patient history, medication use, and mobility. This assessment informs individualized fall prevention plans.
Implementing specific fall prevention protocols is another common strategy. These protocols include ensuring beds are in a low position, keeping call lights and personal belongings within reach, and providing non-slip footwear. Environmental modifications, such as decluttering patient rooms and ensuring adequate lighting, also create a safer environment. Staff education and encouraging patient and family involvement are also components of fall prevention programs.