Date of Graduation
Fall 12-15-2017
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
First Advisor
Dr De Natale
Second Advisor
Robin Jackson
Abstract
Fall Prevention Abstract
Background: According to the CDC, the medical cost for falls was approximately $30 billion in 2012. When a patient falls, and gets serious injury, these costs could sum up to $14,056 per patient. As a result, hospital stays per patient are observed to increase by approximately 6.3 days longer than those patients who haven’t encountered falls.
This study focused on identifying high fall risk patients, and developing a plan of care to reduce the occurrence of falls in a hospital setting. Nurses using safe fall interventions techniques have been proven to inspire fall preventions.
An assessment of the nursing practices in the microsystem was carried out to identify the barriers that affected the fall prevention and increased falls rates in the unit. This assessment showed an inconsistence in the placement of fall signs by the nursing staff. This discovery was critical to addressing the fall rates in the unit.
Purpose: To execute and develop an effective and functional fall prevention plan with a goal to reduce inpatient fall rate by 25%. This should enhance the ability of nurses to comply when implementing fall procedures and using fall prevention equipment.
Methods: This study employed the Kurt Lewin’s change model, which included developing a fall prevention committee, creating a new fall signage and continuous education of staff members.
Results: The rate falls in the microsystem were observed to have declined significantly. Nursing staff are more compliant with the new fall prevention protocol.
Recommended Citation
Fang, Linda, "Fall Prevention" (2017). Master's Projects and Capstones. 654.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/654
