Risk Factors for Falls

• Occupation @ elevated heights

• ETOH/Substance use

• Socioeconomic factors

• Comorbidities

• Polypharmacy

• Physical inactivity; poor balance

• Unsafe environments

• Foot/limb problems

• Familiarize the patient with the environment

• Maintain call light within patient reach

• Keep bed locked and in low position

• Keep wheelchair locked when patient is stationary

• Non-slip foot-wear

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Universal Fall Precautions

​Increased Fall Risk

• > 2 falls within the last 12 months

• Patient presents with an acute fall

• Patient has difficulty walking or with balance

​ABC's of a Fall Assessment

A: Age > 85
B: Bone Disorder (osteoporosis, bone metastasis)
C: Coagulation disorder (leukemia, anticoagulation use)
S: Surgery (abdominal or thoracic surgery)

SPLATT-Used to assess previous falls

S: Symptoms @ the time of the fall
P: Previous falls?
L: Location of the fall
A: Activity @ the time of the fall
T: Time of the fall
T: Trauma after the fall