Date of Graduation
Fall 12-17-2021
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Program
MSN project
Abstract
There have been 23 documented falls on the maternity unit at Hospital A over the past three years. This fall rate is above the national average, making the reduction of falls on the postpartum unit a priority to maintain the hospital’s Magnet status and improve patient safety. Data analysis related to contributing factors of falls and staff education on best ambulation practices has the potential to decrease the number of maternal falls on the targeted microsystem population of the postpartum unit. This quality improvement project conducted a fall audit on each documented fall case, performed an environmental survey of the postpartum unit, and provided staff education on best ambulation practices from data analysis. The outcomes were measured through pre and post surveys from staff, adjustments in Morse Fall Scale assessments following fall cases, and the ongoing number of falls. The project resulted in an increased awareness of falls on the postpartum unit, however 3 additional falls occurred in the weeks following education. This indicates the need for additional level 4 education on fall prevention in the future. The project concluded with the recommendation of implementing an OB-specific fall risk assessment tool to replace the currently used Morse Fall Scale.
Recommended Citation
Benjamin, Kathleen, "Reducing Maternal Falls on a Postpartum Unit through Staff Education" (2021). Master's Projects and Capstones. 1274.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/1274
