Preventing falls in the hospital

Important information to avoid falling and hurting yourself

Do you know why you have a higher risk of falling?

1. You are in an unfamiliar environment.
2. You may have a medical condition or a surgical procedure.
3. You may be receiving medications that can affect your normal balance or alertness.

Tips to prevent a fall

• Before getting up, always make sure to call a nurse for help.
• If you feel dizzy, do not move and ask for assistance.
• Keep your personal items within reach (eyeglasses, dentures, hearing aid, cell phone, call button, walking aid, etc.).
• Familiarize yourself with your room, bathroom, and nurse call system.
• Use grab bars or rails when getting out of the shower or up from the toilet.
• Be cautious with long and loose fitting clothes (abaya or kandora).
• ALWAYS inform the nurses of any falls in the hospital or at home.
• We may use a bed or chair alarm to further ensure your safety.
• If we are concerned about your risk of falling the nurse will stay with you in the bathroom.
• Sit at the side of the bed for one minute before standing.
• Wear the provided nonslip socks without shoes or proper footwear.
• Keep your environment bright and floor clear of clutter or rugs.

Did you know that most falls occur when a patient is alone?

If a nurse asks a family member or personal caregiver to stay with the patient, it is important that they DO NOT leave the patient alone without informing your nurse, even for a few minutes.