Date of Graduation
Summer 8-11-2023
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
First Advisor
Dr. Lauren Knapp
Second Advisor
Dr. Ghada Dunbar
Abstract
Abstract
Problem: Data obtained from the facility from February 2022 to July 2023 showed that there were a total of 110 falls at the facility with 51% resulting in injury. The facility also lacked a standardized fall assessment tool with minimal follow up after fall incidents.
Context: A microsystem assessment of the geriatric population at the long-term care facility indicated the need for a standardized fall risk screening tool to accurately assess patients.
Interventions: A staff presentation was created highlighting the high rate of falls at the facility as well as to educate on the implementation of the Morse Fall Scale. Additionally, a presentation was created for residents to provide education on factors that increase the risk of falls and prevention measures to encourage active participation in their care.
Measures: Data from February 2022-July 2023 was obtained and organized in an electronic database created on a Google Sheet. To measure the outcome, the number of falls in January 2023 will be compared to data from January 2024 to determine if there has been a 20% decrease in resident falls.
Results: Due to time constraints, the results will not be obtained. The expected outcome of this project is to reduce the number of falls in the facility by 20% within six months and prevent future incidents, as evidence shows that fall assessment and interventions can reduce falls rates by 20-30% (Morris & O'Riordan, 2017).
Conclusion: Equipping the staff with a standardized electronic Morse Fall Scale assessment tool will improve the assessment of residents' fall risk. Education provided to residents will allow them to be active and mindful in their own care ultimately reducing the fall rate and achieving the best patient outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Lowe, Esther A.; Cates, Breanna; James, Lisa; Samson, Ashley; Ochoa, Jowel; and Ng, Matthew, "Fall Risk Identification and Reduction Among the Gerontological Population at a Long-term Care Facility" (2023). Master's Projects and Capstones. 1605.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/1605
