The officer assigned to custody of the patient shall remain with the patient at all times . Hospital Security Officers and all hospital employees will not accept
responsibility for a law enforcement officer or protective custody provider who leaves his
post for personal reasons or breaks.
Policy STAT: Patients under Law Enforcement or Protective Custody
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Clinical Patient Safety Why is Fall & Injury Reduction so Important?
Falls are among the leading causes of death in all people ages 65 or older. Patient falls are among the most common occurrences reported in hospitals. Of those who fall, as many as half may suffer moderate to severe injuries that reduce mobility and independence and increase the risk of premature death.
Fall r/t injuries are one of the hospital-acquired conditions that Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services no longer pays for. Why do Patients Fall? Fall Risks – Multi factorial
Increased Age
Previous Fall(s)
Gait Changes (trips & stumble)
Feet not picked up as high
Impaired muscular control
Slowed reflexes
Inability to recover from a trip or unexpected step
Fatigue
Sleep deprivation
Dementia or forgetfulness
Residual effects of stroke
Dehydration
Low blood pressure
Medications
Environmental Factors
Unfamiliar Surroundings
Sensory changes (hearing/ visual)
