An evaluation of a sitter reduction program intervention.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Safety
• Nursing Practice

Background:

• Hospitals employ patient sitters to prevent falls, a common adverse event.
• The efficacy and cost-effectiveness of sitter utilization require ongoing evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a sitter reduction program on patient falls.
• To determine if reduced sitter use affects fall rates in acute care.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of sitter usage and patient fall data.
• Examination of pre- and post-intervention fall rates and sitter utilization.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in sitter use was observed.
• Patient fall rates remained stable and did not significantly increase following sitter reduction.

Conclusions:

• Implementing a sitter reduction program is feasible in acute care settings.
• Reducing reliance on sitters can be achieved without compromising patient safety regarding falls.