Your Guide to Fall Prevention

Your Guide to Fall Prevention

Medical Conditions and Your Risk

Osteoporosis is a disease where bones become less dense. It can lead to weak bones that are more likely to break or fracture during a fall. Also, with increased age, it will take longer for you to heal, and you may not be able to function to the full extent that you did before the fall.


Blood thinners (such as anticoagulants) are medicines that help reduce the chance of getting a blood clot. Your healthcare provider may have you on this type of medication if you have a medical condition (e.g., risk for heart attack, stroke, etc.) that would put you at risk for a blood clot. Bleeding and bruising are the most common side effects.


Risk Factors for Falls

  • problems with walking and balance (e.g., dizziness or vertigo)
  • lower body weakness
  • poor vision or impaired hearing
  • medications for sleep, blood pressure, pain, anxiety, diabetes, and anticoagulation (blood thinners)
  • previous history of falls
  • certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis
  • confusion/disorientation
  • depression
  • urinary/bowel incontinence, frequency or urgency
  • age greater than 85 years old
  • surgery


Strategies for Preventing Falls

  • Do not get out of bed without assistance.
  • Make sure the call light and possessions are within reach.
  • Have a toileting schedule so you will not need to rush to the restroom.
  • Use assistive devices (canes, walkers, grabbers, etc.) correctly and when needed.
  • Call for assistance if you start feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Keep the bed in the lowest position with 2-3 side rails up.
  • Use only unmoving objects to help steady yourself. Do not use your IV pole, tray table, wheelchair or other objects that can move.
  • Wear shoes or non-skid slippers/socks every time you get out of bed.
  • We may put signs indicating your fall risk inside/outside your room and give you yellow non-skid socks and a yellow arm band to alert hospital personnel to watch out for you.
  • If your fall risk is high, the care team will set a bed alarm on your bed to keep you safe and prevent a fall in the hospital. This alarm notifies the staff you are getting out of bed. 
  • We encourage family members to stay at your bedside to assist in your care and recovery.


What to Do if You Fall

In the Hospital:

  • Stay calm.
  • If you start to fall, try to relax your body. This will reduce the impact of the fall.
  • After you fall, call or phone for help.
  • Do not rush to get up. First, make sure you are not hurt.
  • Be sure to get checked by your healthcare provider for any injuries.


At Home:

  • Try to fall on your side or buttocks. Roll over naturally, turning your head in the direction of the roll.
  • If you can, crawl to strong, stable furniture like a chair, and pull yourself up. Approach the chair from the front and put both hands on the seat.
  • Slowly, begin to rise. Bend whichever knee is stronger; keep your other knee on the floor. Slowly twist around and sit in the chair.


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