A fall can be a jarring experience, often leading to panic. Falls are common, particularly among older adults, and knowing how to respond calmly and safely is paramount. The immediate goal is to determine if the person is injured and, if not, to assist them back to a seated or standing position without causing harm. This process requires a measured approach that prioritizes safety over speed.
Immediate Assessment: When to Call Emergency Services
The first action after a person falls is to pause and assess the situation before attempting any movement. Approach the person slowly and calmly, confirming they are conscious and can communicate. Check the area for any immediate hazards, such as spilled liquids or broken objects, before moving closer.
Do not attempt to move the person if they report severe pain, especially in the head, neck, or back, or if they cannot bear weight on a limb. Visible signs of serious injury, such as a possible fracture, severe bleeding, or swelling, require professional medical attention. Call 911 or local emergency services immediately if the person is unconscious, has lost consciousness at any point, or shows signs of an altered mental state like slurred speech or confusion.
Emergency services are also necessary if the fall involved a significant trauma, such as down a flight of stairs, or if the individual takes blood-thinning medication, as this increases the risk of internal bleeding. If the person is conscious but unable to move on their own, or if you suspect a spinal injury, keep them still, cover them with a blanket to maintain body temperature, and wait for trained paramedics.
Step-by-Step Guide for Assisting an Uninjured Person
If the person is conscious, reports no pain, and is able to move their limbs, you can proceed with helping them up using a stable piece of furniture, such as a sturdy chair or couch. First, encourage them to roll onto their side, which is a less vulnerable position than lying flat on their back. This movement should be guided gently, with the fallen person doing as much of the work as they comfortably can.
Next, help them transition onto their hands and knees, often referred to as being on “all fours”. If they are near a sturdy chair, have them crawl toward it so their hands can reach the seat. The chair must be stable and placed in front of them with the back facing the person, ensuring it will not tip over when they apply pressure.
Once stable on hands and knees, they should place both hands firmly on the chair seat for support. The next step is to bring one leg forward, planting the foot flat on the floor, resulting in a kneeling position similar to a lunge. It is best to use the person’s stronger leg for this step if that information is known.
As the helper, you should brace the chair with your foot or knee to prevent it from sliding, and position yourself behind the person to provide physical support, not to lift. Encourage the person to push down on the chair with their arms and push up with their legs to slowly raise their body. You can offer support at the waist or under the armpits, but the person should be performing the majority of the exertion. Once standing, they should pivot slowly and sit down immediately in the chair to rest and reorient themselves before attempting to walk.
Addressing the Cause and Post-Fall Care
After the person is successfully seated, it is important to monitor them closely for signs of shock, even if they appear uninjured. Symptoms like paleness, rapid pulse, or shallow breathing warrant immediate medical consultation. Offer the person water to drink to ensure they are hydrated and allow them time to recover fully from the physical and emotional stress of the fall.
A key part of post-fall management is determining the contributing factors to prevent future incidents. You should check the immediate area for environmental hazards, such as loose rugs, poor lighting, or clutter, that may have caused a trip. A fall can also be a symptom of an underlying medical issue, such as a sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness from a medication change, or an issue with balance.
Even if the person feels fine, they should consult with a healthcare professional following the incident. A doctor can perform a comprehensive assessment, including a medication review and balance tests, to identify and address any physiological risks. Since having experienced a fall significantly increases the risk of another fall, this preventative check-up is necessary for maintaining long-term safety and independence.