Low blood sugar Additional Factors related to a Patient’s Risk of Falling and Injuries
Intrinsic risk factors.
Medical History – Nurse reviews medical history for physiologic alterations that increase the risk for falling: impaired memory and cognition, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, decreased hearing, decreased night vision, cataracts or glaucoma, orthostatic hypotension, decreased balance, slowed nervous system response, history of stroke or parkinsonism, incontinence, and decreased energy or fatigue.
High Risk Medications - Medications that cause drowsiness, dizziness, hypotension, Parkinsonian effects, ataxia/gait disturbances or vision disturbances may increase a patients risk for falling. Medications that cause osteoporosis or reduced bone mineral density may increase the risk of fracture with a fall Medications that cause increased risk for bleeding can increase the risk of cerebral hemorrhage with a fall
Extrinsic risk factors that may pose a threat to safety (e.g., improperly lighted room, obstructed walkway, clutter of supplies and equipment). When are patients assessed for injury risk identification and MFS?
On Admission
Daily in all adult inpatient care units
With any change in patient’s condition
Change in level of care
Returning to the nursing unit following a procedure
After a fall event
