Exploring influencing factors on fall prevention intentions among nursing assistants: a qualitative study

Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this study explored key factors influencing fall prevention intentions among nursing assistants in Chinese tertiary hospitals.

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Twenty nursing assistants from a tertiary hospital in China were recruited via purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis, with reporting guided by the COREQ checklist.

Three core themes consistent with the TPB emerged: (1) Ambivalent behavioral attitudes, characterized by a disconnect between valuing fall prevention and assuming responsibility, and conditional proactivity; (2) Conflicted subjective norms, including situational compromises among institutional, family, and peer expectations, and a punitive feedback culture; (3) Limited perceived behavioral control, challenges in complex situations and structural resource constraints (time, equipment, support).

Nursing assistants' fall prevention intentions are shaped jointly by ambivalent attitudes, conflicting norms, and limited control. Multi-level interventions empowering nursing assistants, fostering a constructive organizational culture, and optimizing resources are needed to enhance their intentions and translate policy into consistent bedside practice.