Preventing Falls
Preventing Falls in Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are supposed to take care of residents, which includes incorporating safety measures to prevent falls. It’s essential long-term care facilities first conduct a thorough falls risk assessment, and then implement strategies to alleviate all identified risks. A fall-prevention program that’s adequately developed and strategically implemented will at best eliminate, or at least, reduce the number of falls.
Simple Strategies to Prevent Nursing Home Falls in Georgia
- Implement a fall-prevention strategy
- Train staff adequately in fall-risk-reduction techniques
- Implement strict rules for visitors who have pets or children (no running in hallways, no pets unless a certified service animal)
- Incorporate grab bars in appropriate places (bathrooms, near beds, hallways, kitchens, stairs, uneven floors)
- Ensure furniture and toilets are at appropriate heights
- Use adequate lighting
- Declutter rooms
- Make sure residents’ personal items are within reach
- Clear floors of frayed rugs, wires, cords, and other tripping hazards
- Make sure floors and sidewalks are even, free of cracks, and free of debris
- Use proper equipment, such as Hoyer Lifts, when moving a patient in and out of bed, off other furniture, or in-and-out of vehicles
- Keep floors and bathtubs clean and dry
- Make sure equipment is up-to-date and properly functioning
- Pay attention to residents’ clothing and ensure it’s not too long, too loose, or presents as a tripping hazard
- Encourage non-slip, well-fitted shoes
- Assist residents whenever necessary
- Closely monitor the side effects for medications
- Use no-slip socks at night
- Ensure floor mats and bed alarms are available
- Create toileting plans, especially at night
- Increase supervision for all at-risk fall residents, especially those on blood thinners
- Implement call lights that are workable and within reach
- Ensure there is appropriate staffing given the resident population
Contact us today if you or your loved one has experienced a fall at a nursing home. We offer free consultations and we work on a contingency basis. There is no fee for our services unless we secure a verdict or settlement for your case! Call us today at (706) 354-4000.