Falls and Injuries in Hospitalized Patients: Impact of a Prevention Program
Author Information
Author(s): Schwendimann René, Bühler Hugo, De Geest Sabina, Milisen Koen
Primary Institution: Institute of Nursing Science, University of Basel
Hypothesis
Does an interdisciplinary falls prevention program reduce fall rates and consequent injuries in hospitalized patients?
Conclusion
The implementation of an interdisciplinary falls prevention program did not lead to a significant reduction in fall rates or injuries among hospitalized patients.
Supporting Evidence
- 3,842 falls were recorded affecting 2,512 patients.
- 66.4% of falls resulted in no injuries.
- 29.7% of falls resulted in minor injuries.
- 3.9% of falls resulted in major injuries.
- Fall rates fluctuated slightly from 9.1 falls in 1999 to 8.6 falls in 2003.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether a special program could help stop patients from falling in the hospital, but it didn't really work.
Methodology
The study used a serial survey design to analyze fall rates and injuries before and after implementing the falls prevention program.
Potential Biases
Variability in commitment and clinical expertise among healthcare staff may have influenced adherence to the intervention.
Limitations
The study did not control for patient characteristics and adherence to the intervention protocol was not recorded.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of participants was 67.3 years, with 53.6% female; 32.6% were aged 80 years and older.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.086
Statistical Significance
p = 0.086
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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