Falls represent a leading cause of preventable injury in hospitals and a frequently reported serious adverse event. Hospitalization is associated with an increased risk for falls and serious injuries including hip fractures, subdural hematomas, or even death. A recent, nonrandomized, controlled trial assessed whether a fall-prevention tool kit that engages patients and families in the fall prevention process throughout hospitalization …
Did you know… Falls in assisted living communities account for 50% of liability claims 80% of falls go unwitnessed Falls can cost up to $50 billion/year 72% of falls occur in the resident’s bedroom 44% of residents indicate that their mobility aid was out of reach Interesting statistics, right? What is alarming is that 80% of falls go unwitnessed and …
The cost of a fall among older adults requiring emergency services is unclear, especially beyond the acute care period. In a recent study, medical expenditures (costs) to 1 year among community-dwelling older adults who fell and required ambulance transport, including acute versus post-acute periods, the primary drivers of cost and comparison to baseline expenditures were evaluated. Results showed that the …
As caregivers, we are all aware that residents with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease are at higher risk for falls and head injuries. What we didn’t know until recently is that current trends in treating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease with antipsychotic medications may actually be increasing these risks. The results of a recent study published in the Journal of …
We have all heard about, talked about or participated in post-fall huddles hoping to improve outcomes for our residents. A recent study conducted by BMC Health Services has identified that post-fall huddles may reduce the risk of repeat falls. Staff who participate in post-fall huddles are likely to have positive perceptions of teamwork support for fall-risk reduction and safety culture …
A new study suggests that typical fall prevention advice for seniors is mostly ineffective. Almost three times as many adults aged 75 years and older died from falls in 2016 than in 2000 (25,189 people in 2016 compared to 8613 in 2000) (Journal of the American Medical Association). Experts suggest a more personalized approach to fall prevention as well as …
Angie SzumlinskiDirector, HealthCap Risk Management Services Resident falls continue to challenge our communities, it is the highest cause of rehospitalizations, negative outcomes, immobility and claims in long-term/post-acute care. There are many products on the market that appear to have some promise in early identification of fall risk including the use of assessment tools to measure the level of frailty. The …
