Exploration of Risk Factors for Falls Using Electronic Nursing Records

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Research
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Falls are a significant concern in healthcare settings, leading to increased morbidity and mortality.
• Identifying modifiable risk factors is essential for effective fall prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify fall risk factors by comparing patient data from admission day to the day a fall occurred.
• To utilize electronic nursing records and the Morse Fall Scale (MFS) for comprehensive fall risk assessment.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of fall-related data from June 1, 2014, to May 31, 2015.
• Descriptive statistics and McNemar test were employed for statistical analysis of the collected data.

Main Results:

• Analysis included 447 fall events, with 16 patients experiencing recurrent falls.
• Significant differences in fall risk were observed related to pain, emotional distress, urinary problems, and fever.
• Key Morse Fall Scale (MFS) risk factors identified included history of falling, secondary diagnoses, IV catheter status, fall-related medications, mental status, general weakness, and gait.

Conclusions:

• Routine fall screening is vital for the early detection of patients at risk of falling.
• Identifying high-risk patient groups and implementing tailored fall prevention guidelines can significantly improve patient safety and reduce fall incidence.