SAFER Mobilization Is Age-Friendly Care

A dynamic tension exists between preventing falls and optimally mobilizing hospitalized patients. The SAFER program aimed for patients, families, and staff to collaboratively design and simultaneously operationalize patient-specific fall reduction and mobilization strategies.

This pilot project was implemented on six units of a large level one trauma center. Patients were engaged in goal setting to maximize their mobilization potential while avoiding a fall during hospitalization. A poster displaying each patient's fall risk factors, corresponding mitigation strategies, and patient responsibilities served as a visual aid to assist staff, patients, and families in following the individualized safe mobilization plan. Falls and mobilization trends were measured.

This project achieved a 43% reduction in falls with a trend toward increased patient mobilization over a 6-month period.

This project demonstrated a patient-centered approach to promoting safe mobilization within the context of the Age-Friendly Health Systems 4Ms Framework during hospitalization.