Authors (including presenting author) :
Fook SMS(1), Chan ML(1), Cheng BW(1), Kwan WS(1), Yeung KC(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Neurosurgical and Surgical Ward, Shatin Hospital
Introduction :
Falls in hospital pose significant risks to patient safety and increase healthcare costs. Our rehabilitation hospital maintains a physical restraint-free culture, using restraints only for patients showing self-harm behaviors. In 2023, five fall incidents were reported in the Neurosurgical and surgical wards, particularly among patients in isolation rooms, where disorientation is a factor. One incident highlighted the need for better communication when a relative failed to notify staff about a patient’s movements. The influx of new nursing staff has also revealed gaps in understanding fall risks, especially for neurosurgical patients with cognitive impairments. This project aims to enhance fall prevention through education, collaboration, and comprehensive practices involving healthcare teams, patients, and families.
Objectives :
1. Increase Staff Awareness: Enhance staff knowledge of fall prevention strategies. 2. Engage Patients and Families: Promote active participation in fall prevention efforts. 3. Reduce Incidents and Severity: Achieve measurable reductions in both the frequency and severity of falls.
Methodology :
1. Educational Sessions: Targeted talks were conducted for nursing staff, including Temporary Undergraduate Nursing Students (TUNS). Led by Ward Managers (WMs) and Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), sessions covered past incidents, common causes, and effective prevention measures. Emphasis was placed on clinical judgment and tools like the Fall Morse Scale for patient-specific strategies. 2. Video Production: A 3-minute fall prevention video was created for patients, focusing on high-risk individuals. It includes an introduction to the surgical wards, common fall causes, and guidance on seeking staff assistance. A separate video for relatives was also broadcast to reinforce their role in prevention. 3. Equipment Enhancements: The use of safety equipment, including alarm pads and belts, was expanded for real-time monitoring. Protective materials such as head savers, hip protectors, and shock-absorbent mats were acquired to reduce injury severity.
Result & Outcome :
1. Increased Awareness: 100% of nursing and support staff attended educational sessions, with knowledge scores rising from 70% to 95%. 2. Enhanced Engagement: Surveys showed that 85% of patients and families felt more empowered to participate in fall prevention, improving communication with staff. 3. Reduction in Incidents: Fall incidents decreased by 60%, with a 70% reduction in the severity of fall-related injuries, demonstrating the program's effectiveness.
