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Falls communication patterns among nursing staff working in long-term care settings
Laura M Wagner1, Thecla Damianakis, Nina Mafrici
1Baycrest Geriatric Health Care System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. lwagner@klaru-baycrest.on.ca
Clinical Nursing Research
|July 6, 2010
Summary
Effective communication about fall risk in long-term care (LTC) facilities is crucial. This study reveals communication gaps among staff and with families, hindering fall prevention efforts.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Healthcare Communication
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Effective communication is essential for resident safety in long-term care (LTC) settings.
- Falls are a significant safety concern for residents in LTC facilities.
- Communication breakdowns can impede effective fall risk management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how licensed and unlicensed staff in LTC facilities identify, communicate, and respond to fall-related information.
- To identify themes in falls management communication processes.
- To explore differences and similarities in communication between licensed and unlicensed staff.
Main Methods:
- Focus group methodology was employed.
- Data were collected from licensed staff (registered nurses/registered practical nurses) and unlicensed staff (personal support workers).
- Four LTC facilities participated in the study.
Main Results:
- Key themes included communication of resident fall risk, reporting procedures to staff and family, and care plan communication/adherence.
- A knowledge deficit regarding falls quality improvement was identified.
- Barriers to falls quality improvement initiatives were highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Communication gaps exist among diverse LTC staff and with family members regarding resident falls.
- Improving communication networks is vital for enhancing fall-reduction efforts in LTC settings.
- Addressing knowledge deficits and barriers is necessary for effective falls quality improvement.
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