PowerPoint Presentation
Reducing fallsnpsg #9
Presented by Connie WilsonTarget patient
Adults 65 years or olderCommon risk factorsHome settingMultiple
comorbiditiesLive alone or with spouse
Example used is my mother who is married to another high risk
person. Several health issues, multiple medications, increasingly
forgetful. Mobility is decreasing.2Risk factors-enviromental
Clutter, rugs, night lights in hallways,etc3
Outdoor hazardsKeep sidewalks clear.
Pecans, limbs and branches4enviromentWe cant always remodel the
home environment to fit our needs.Steps, awkward doorways, and
uneven floors are hazards.
Install handrails, have something study to hold on to. Have a
bedside commode if bathroom is too far away.5Risk factors:
healthHistory of fallsBlood pressureIncontinenceMedicationsMental
status
Mental competence, compliance and medications, 7 of 17 meds are
known to increase risks of falls.6SolutionsSo, what do we do to
reduce the risk of falling? Home Safety Checklist are available to
help identify the risks(DAmico & Barbarito, n.d.) Provide
support Monitor medications Monitor mental status
Identifies risks that you may not think of, ex lines and cords,
low furniture, make sure phone can be reached from the floor.7Focus
on medicationsDo they need assistance with medications?Are they
taking them as directed?Compliance?
Monitor prn meds. She has 2 meds that are listed on BEERS list
that are known to increase risks of adverse events.8Monitor mental
statusAre they alert and oriented?
Social contacts?
Stimulating hobbies or activities?
Keep them engaged9Assess physical statusMobilityPainBlood
Pressure
Keep mobile, address pain, and check blood pressure. Low
pressure can cause dizziness.10Have a planLife alertJar of
LifeEmergency contactsPower of Attorney
11conclusionWe all want to live a long, healthy, and happy
lifeSimple modifications can helpHave a support systemHave a
plan
Plan for the future. What will you do if you need more care, do
you have a POA that knows and will honor your
wishes?12referencesDAmico, D., & Barbarito, C. (n.d.). Health
& Physical Assessment in Nursing (2nd ed.). Pearson.
