Fall Prevention Program

Corning Hospital supports the belief that patients should live in the least restrictive setting possible in order to preserve their dignity while they receive quality healthcare.

The goal of the Fall Prevention Program is to identify the patient who is at risk to fall and to provide a safe environment.

Nursing involvement

Every patient admitted to Corning Hospital is assessed for their risk to fall by the Nursing staff, utilizing the following criteria:

1. Does the patient have the ability to get up from a bed or chair without assistance?
2. Can the patient stand independently?
3. Can the patient walk without assistance?
4. Can the patient use the call systems appropriately?
5. Does the patient recognize his/her limitations?

When any one of these questions is answered with a no, there are certain interventions that will occur.

The following are fall prevention interventions:

First line intervention

• a yellow arm bracelet will be applied to the wrist
• a yellow dot will be placed on the room door
• patient/family education

Second line intervention

• family input and involvement
• diversional activities

Third line intervention

• alarms will be used to alert nursing staff when the patient gets up

Fourth line intervention

• fall prevention restraints

An assessment is done on each patient and an individual care plan is developed to meet all needs for safety and independence.

Family / Patient involvement

Cooperation and participation from the patient and family is essential in the success of the Fall Prevention Program. Personal information about the daily activities of the patient help in the assessment and application of the most appropriate interventions.

How can the family help?

• Encourage the patient to wear slippers with non-skid soles when walking.
• Notify nursing staff if there is a spill on the floor.

How can the patient help?

• If you feel weak, dizzy or lightheaded, ask for assistance before getting out of bed.
• Make sure your bedside table is close by, so you do not have to reach for objects.
• Keep the bathroom light on at night, so you can see if you have to get up.
• Use the call light in the bathroom if you need help getting back to bed.

Health Education Index