fall
Fall precautions
Patient was instructed on Why Older People Fall. There are many reasons that older people have increased risk of falling. Prevention of falls starts with identifying potentially treatable medical conditions, such as: Side effects of medications, fainting spells, vertigo.
Patient was instructed on other reasons Why Older People Fall such as: Lightheadedness with standing caused by postural hypotension (blood pressure that drops dramatically with standing), other forms of dizziness, persistent pain in any part of the leg.
Patient was instructed on strategies that can significantly help decrease the risk of a fall such as: Good lighting throughout the home, especially in stairwells and hallways, Non-slip floors and rugs, Hand rails on stairs, next to the toilet and in the shower and bathtub.
Patient was instructed on strategies that can significantly help decrease the risk of a fall such as: Skid-proof mats or strips in the shower and bathtub, Removal of furniture that can slip away if grabbed accidentally for support, supportive non-slip footwear and not walking in stocking feet. Patient currently uses cane while ambulating and states that it helps her with her balance. Patient advised that side effects of most medications taking can cause dizziness and to report and dizziness so that it can be addressed by MD. Patient voiced understanding SN will continue to monitor.
SN instructed patient and caregiver on strategies that can significantly help decrease the risk of a fall such as: skid-proof mats or strips in the shower and bathtub, removal of furniture that can slip away if grabbed accidentally for support, supportive non-slip footwear and not walking in stocking feet. SN also instructed on side effects of most medications taking that could possibly cause dizziness and to report it so that it can be addressed by physician. Patient and caregiver voiced understanding of all instructions given.
RN instructed patient and caregiver on balance in order to avoid fall that can produce complications in musculoskeletal system. RN explained that with age, a combination of factors decreases balance and the nerve endings in our feet don't detect impulses as readily and the balance control centers in our brain and our ears operate more slowly so age - related changes in vision and hearing, even when subtle, also contribute to the decline in balance and could increase the risk of falls. Patient and caregiver voiced understanding of all instructions given.
RN performed supervision with HHA present and reviewed that the HHA Care Plan is followed as ordered. Patient is satisfied with rendered services. RN instructed patient and caregiver on strategies that can significantly help decrease the risk of a fall such as: skid - proof mats or strips in the shower and bathtub, removal of furniture that can slip away if grabbed accidentally for support, supportive non - slip footwear and not walking in stocking feet. RN also explained that side effects of most medications taking can cause dizziness and advised to immediately report the occurrence of dizziness so that it can be addressed by physician. Patient and caregiver voiced understanding of all instructions given.
Wheel char Fall precautions Avoid leaning forward and tipping yourself out of the wheelchair, Move footrests out of the way to avoid tripping on them during transfer, Lock the brakes before getting out of the wheelchair, Don’t over reach for an object, Avoid sliding or positioning yourself too far forward on the seat. Keeping your wheelchair in top condition is essential to its dependability and longevity.
SN educated patient and caregiver on the importance of always using assistive device with ambulation and transfers to avoid falls or injuries. Nurse instructed patient and caregiver on the importance of home safety such as proper lighting, and to keep walkways free of debris and clutter. Patient was instructed to contact PCP or home health agency if they fall or if current health status declines. Patient was instructed to not walk unassisted when not feeling steady . Patient verbalized understanding
Patient instructed on fall safety precautions to include: locking w/c before transfers, use assistive device for mobility at all times, make sure walkways are free of clutter, & well lit, do not walk around barefoot or in socks, avoid using rugs, use non slip rug in bath tub & use shower chair for bathing.