Evaluation of an interprofessional, evidence-based falls training.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Interprofessional Education

Background:

• Fall-related injuries and mortality are rising in older adults, necessitating multifactorial interventions.
• The Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) serves a high-risk population and employs an interprofessional care model.
• Existing evidence supports the need for comprehensive, team-based strategies to mitigate fall risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an evidence-based (EBP) falls prevention training program within a PACE setting.
• To assess program quality, participant learning, self-efficacy, and intended behavioral changes.
• To refine the training program through a mixed-methods evaluation.

Main Methods:

• A revised, established EBP falls prevention program was delivered by an interprofessional team at a PACE.
• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection.
• Program satisfaction, knowledge acquisition, self-efficacy, and reported practice changes were assessed.

Main Results:

• Participants reported high program satisfaction, with the interprofessional delivery being a favorable aspect.
• Statistically significant overall knowledge gains (5%) were observed, particularly in understanding the evidence base (2.67%).
• Self-efficacy ratings increased significantly post-session, and participants indicated a willingness to adapt practices.

Conclusions:

• The interprofessional, EBP falls prevention training program proved effective in a PACE setting.
• The study highlights the value of multifaceted assessment and iterative program development for enhancing falls prevention.
• Findings support the integration of such training to improve team function and falls prevention practices in geriatric care.