Authors (including presenting author) :
Chow CH (1), Kwong TN (2), Li PM (3), Ho CM (4)
Affiliation :
Occupational Therapy Department, Tai Po Hospital
Introduction :
Hip fracture was commonly diagnosed in orthopedic inpatient settings. To ensure thorough screening of fall risk factors, the OT department at Tai Po Hospital has adopted a comprehensive approach considering the Person, Environment and Occupation factors in fall prevention . A recent analysis of data was conducted to review fall prevention service provision within the department.
Objectives :
This study's primary objective was to evaluate and enhance fall prevention programs for patients with hip fractures at Tai Po Hospital.
Methodology :
Data was analyzed from 97 inpatient hip fracture cases between June and September 2024, using the comprehensive approach to identify gaps in fall prevention treatment. Subsequently, staff training sessions on fall prevention were conducted from September to December 2024. Feedback was collected to evaluate the training's effectiveness, and relevant resources and environmental setup were introduced to facilitate further assessment and treatment.
Result & Outcome :
The analysis included 97 hip fracture cases, with ages ranging from 61 to 97 years (SD ± 8.3); 36 patients were male and 61 female. Predominant fall risk factors identified were Balance (93.8%) ,Indoor hazards (62.9%), and Sedentary lifestyle (20.6%). The first two factors had been addressed through well-established programs within the department.
However, factors such as Vision (10.3%), outdoor hazards (41.2%), and sedentary lifestyle (20.6%) remained insufficiently addressed currently. Six training sessions were conducted subsequently to equip therapists with awareness, knowledge and confidence on assessing and addressing different risk factors. The training sessions included journal review, group discussion and case sharing. Feedback was then collected from 15 participants through a survey. In terms of fall assessments, the result indicated an increase in awareness (93.3%), knowledge (86.7%), and confidence (73.3%) among the therapists. In terms of fall interventions, there was an increase in awareness (86.7%), knowledge (73.3%), and confidence (60%). To facilitate assessment of less frequent risks like vision, a Vision Corner was set up with a visual impairment screening kit including low vision rehabilitation guidelines, and standardized assessments.
Conclusion
Service provision for hip fracture patients at Tai Po Hospital has been enhanced through the comprehensive approach, staff training, and environment setup. Future programs will target overlooked factors such as outdoor hazards and sedentary lifestyles.
