Authors (including presenting author) :
Chung CY (1), Wong TK(1), Fu TY(1), Fan YY(2), Wong KL(2), Wong YT(2), Chang MY(2), Lee MY(2), Lau LK(2), Yau TS(2), Chan YT(2), Fan MH(2), Cheung KL(2)
Affiliation :
1) Physiotherapy Department, Grantham Hospital
2) Cardiac Medical Unit, Grantham Hospital
Introduction :
Falls significantly impact the health and quality of life of cardiac patients. In the last quarter of 2023, there was a notable increase in fall incidents within Cardiac Medical Unit, primarily among patients who were previously able to walk unaided. To address this issue, Fall Prevention Program was implemented at Grantham Hospital in April 2024, utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach involving nurses and physiotherapists to mitigate fall risks and enhance patient safety.
Objectives :
The program aims to:
1. Reduce the incidence of falls
2. Increase patient awareness of fall risks.
3. Improve patient mobility through assessment, tailored exercise regimens, and education on fall prevention strategies.
Methodology :
Upon admission, patients were screened by nurses. Those with Morse Fall Scale scores of 25-49 and who were medically fit to self-ambulate were referred to physiotherapists for the Fall Prevention Program. Patients unable to walk independently or with unstable medical conditions were excluded. Eligible patients underwent a functional assessment by physiotherapists, including the Five Times Sit to Stand (FTSTS) test for further fall risk classification. Patients with FTSTS scores <12 seconds were classified as low fall risk, while those with scores ≥12 seconds were classified as moderate to high fall risk. For moderate to high-risk patients, physiotherapists conducted a detailed fall risk assessment, which included single-leg stands, manual muscle tests, and gait assessments, followed by tailored exercise interventions. Physiotherapists communicated the results and fall prevention strategies to nurses, who monitored patients’ conditions and implemented preventive measures as needed.
Result & Outcome :
From April to November 2024, 82 patients (mean age: 66.6 ± 12.2; males: 65, females: 17) were referred. Twenty-eight patients were not assessed due to changes in their condition. Of the 54 assessed, 48 (89%) were classified as low fall risk, while 6 (11%) were categorized as moderate to high fall risk and required assistance with mobilization. These patients received physiotherapy interventions. Notably, no falls were reported among the assessed cases during their in-hospital stay.
Conclusion:
The Fall Prevention Program effectively reduced fall incidents in the cardiac unit, fostering patient independence and safety. This initial experience provides a foundation for the continued operation and evaluation of the program.
