How can Patients & Caregivers Help Prevent Falls
in
Hospitals
While doctors and nurses provide the best treatment, a sudden fall can cause
serious
harm leading to physical injuries, such as fractures, and psychological impacts,
including fear and loss of confidence. In spite of several measures taken by the
hospital, patient falls are reported as high as 53% in Indian hospitals.
Risks of fall:
- Unfamiliar Environment can disorient you and increase the
likelihood
of falls.
- Certain medications may cause dizziness or confusion,
heightening
fall risk.
- Health conditions Illnesses, medical tests, or treatments that
leave
you feeling weak or unsteady can contribute to falls.
- Sedentary lifestyle A lack of physical activity can weaken
muscles
and balance, making falls more likely.
As a patient and caregiver, you can help prevent
falls
by:
- Use the Call button near your bed and avoid attempting to move
or
walk alone if you are feeling weak, dizzy, or unsteady. Do not hesitate to ask
for
help
from your caregiver or attendant when you need to move. Do not lower the side
guards
of
your bed when getting off.
- Get out of bed slowly in three steps: First, sit up then sit
on
the
side of the bed, only then stand up. At each step pause for a few seconds before
you
start walking.
- Wear non-slippery footwear such as rubber-soled slippers. If
the
hospital is providing slippers make sure they are non slippery. Take time to
wear
your
footwear properly. Do not walk in socks or barefoot.
- Use Handrails or any other support when moving around in the
hospital, along corridors and stairways to maintain balance and stability. Use
walking
aids such as a walking stick, walker if necessary.
- Ensure Safety the side rails of your bed are raised, belts
should
be
clasped firmly around you while on the stretcher or wheelchair during motion.
Make
sure
the staff put the safety belt around you.
- Keep the surroundings clutter-free and clear your bed area
and
bathroom of any buckets, devices or any obstacles that may cause you to trip or
slip.
- Follow the doctor's instructions: on mobility precautions as
some
medications and treatments may make you vulnerable to falls.