Fall Facts
This is an unintentional change in position that results in coming to rest on the ground or another lower surface.
What is a fall?
These medications, sometimes called “water pills,” can contribute to dehydration, low blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances.
What are diuretics?
Shoes with these types of soles can help improve traction.
What are non-slip soles?
Getting patients up and moving early, when safe, is called this.
What is early mobilization?
Complete the phrase: “Call ______ Fall.”
Having a previous fall can increase your risk of experiencing another one.
What is history of falls?
Diazepam, Lorazepam, Alprazolam
What are benzodiazepines?
These should be used when recommended and should be properly fitted and in good condition.
What are assistive devices?
Early mobilization can help maintain this physical ability.
What is strength?
A patient should use this device when they need assistance rather than attempting to get up alone.
What is the call light?
At this age, falls are increased due to changes in balance, strength and vision.
Morphine, fentanyl, methadone, and oxycodone can increase fall risk through sedation, hypotension, and impaired coordination.
What are opioids?
Name two sensory devices that can help a patient see and hear their environment clearly.
What are glasses and hearing aids?
True or False: Early mobilization means a patient should get up without assistance as soon as possible.
What is False?
A patient who feels dizzy when standing should do this rather than continuing to walk.
What is stop and call for help?
True or False: Getting up frequently at night to use the bathroom can increase fall risk, especially when someone is tired or in a hurry.
What is True?
This medication class may cause dizziness when a patient stands because it lowers blood pressure.
What are antihypertensives?
A patient should avoid walking in these types of footwear because they can increase instability.
What are loose shoes, slippers, or flip-flops?
A patient should be up to the chair during these times.
What is breakfast, lunch and dinner?
True or False: Patients should wait for assistance when they have been instructed not to get up independently.
What is True?
A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing that can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
What is orthostatic hypotension?
This substance can cause intoxication, impaired coordination, agitation, sedation, and confusion.
What is alcohol?
A walker or cane should be adjusted to this to help the patient use it safely.
What is the correct height?
What is False?
Instead of thinking “I can do it myself,” a patient should remember this three-word fall-prevention message.
What is CALL, DON'T FALL!