HOSPITAL PATIENTS GUIDE

PATIENT INFORMATION
Minimal fees may apply to some community
based services.
For further information, contact Bass Coast
Regional Health during office hours on:
Telephone: (03) 5671 3333
Facsimile: (03) 5671 3300
Falls Prevention
Falls prevention is a key concern at Bass Coast
Regional Health, and the aim is to maintain your
safety, independence, and confidence.
All patients are given a comprehensive
assessment on admission, and falls risks are a
part of this process. Strategies specific to your
requirements are then integrated into your plan
of care to minimise the risk of a fall.
Your risk of falls is often high on admission, due
to a combination of your current condition and
the change in environment. Fortunately there
are simple steps that you, your carer/ family/
friends, and the staff can take to prevent the
likelihood of a fall.
One of the visible strategies used at Bass Coast
Regional Health is the colour orange. Orange
wrist bands and an orange ‘ falling star’ symbol
in a bed area are sometimes used to assist staff in
the need to keep patient areas clear, or to offer
that little bit extra support when ambulating.
Factors influencing the risk of falls are:
• Nutrition
• Mobility (prior falls, general health, and
physical condition)
• Continence
• Cognition
- Depression
- Delirium
- Dementia
• Environment (particularly a change in
environment)
• Medications
Things for you to consider:
• Keep the space around your bed free of
unnecessary clutter as this can be a tripping
hazard.
• If you have been prescribed a walking aid or
other aid to assist in you independence, use
them as these are for your safety.
Inform staff if you previously relied on walking
aids or specialised equipment such as chairs or
showering aids.
• When you first arrive, or post a procedure you
may be unsteady on your feet. Ask for
supervision until you are safer, or it may be
necessary to use a walking aid.
• If rushing to the toilet is a problem, let the
staff know so a toilet regimen or other
strategies can be established.
• Tell the staff if you think existing or new
medications are causing side effects,
particularly dizziness, or unsteadiness on your
feet. Report any episodes of dizziness that
may occur.
• Take the opportunity for supervised physical
activity while on the ward as this helps with
gradual improvement in strength and
balance.
• Ensure that you or your family bring in
appropriate fitting slippers/shoes as they are
essential for safe walking.
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