Authors (including presenting author) :
Lai ML (1), Lau WH (1), Lo MY (1), Law KW (1), Lam PH (1), Tse WY (1), Leung WK (1)
Leung SY (1), Leung KW (1)
Affiliation :
Department of Family Medicine, NTEC
Introduction :
Falls can result in serious injuries, increased healthcare expenses, and reduced mobility. Preventing patient falls in outpatient settings is particularly challenging, as patients have the freedom to move during their visits. Additionally, individuals at risk of falling may not exhibit visible signs of instability and may not recognize their own vulnerabilities. This project aims to lower the incidence of patient falls by addressing identified risk factors, implementing preventive measures such as environmental modifications, and enhancing awareness of fall prevention among both staff and patients.
Objectives :
1.Identify risk factors for falls in the outpatient setting.
2.Reduce environmental hazards that contribute to fall incidents.
3.Enhance patient’s awareness to fall prevention
Methodology :
1.The initial step involved forming a fall prevention workgroup from the quality and safety management team.
2.Since January 2024, the workgroup has been collecting and analyzing all fall cases in NTEC’s outpatient clinics. Data gathered on fall incidents, including age, gender, fall location, mobility status, fall history, cognitive status, and consequences, has been used to identify contributing factors and develop strategies for further prevention.
3.In February 2024, the workgroup created and adapted an environmental fall prevention checklist tailored to outpatient settings. All NTEC clinics conduct weekly checks, and remedial actions are taken if environmental risks, such as poor lighting or uneven floors, are reported.
Result & Outcome :
Between January 2024 and December 2024, a total of 17 patients experienced falls in the outpatient setting, with the majority being over 70 years old. The most common fall “black spot” was near the treatment room (40%) and the shroff office (18%).
A fall prevention poster was designed and displayed in common fall “black spot” to provide tips for patients and visitors. Additionally, a voice-over announcement has broadcasted to remind patients and visitors to walk slowly and cautiously in clinic areas.
Three of the falls had environmental risk factors identified such as movable curtain and chair legs. The immediate actions had taken by replacement of fixed curtain and changing to straight leg chair.
The project is an ongoing process to foster a safer environment for patients by identifying risk factors, implementing preventive measures, and enhancing patient awareness to reduce the incidence of falls.
