Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations and fatalities among individuals aged 65 and older in Canada. With an aging population on the rise, there is an urgent need to monitor fall trends and implement effective prevention strategies.
Oak Valley Health has launched targeted interventions aimed at reducing falls resulting in injury as part of its Quality Improvement Plan (QIP); ramping up fall prevention efforts, training staff to recognize each patient’s fall risk and implement tools and resources to foster a safe care environment.
“Oak Valley Health staff bring diverse perspectives to enhance fall safety. The goal is to ensure we are proactive in preventing falls,” says Carnett Howell-Belle, Patient Care Director for Acute Medicine. “Everything we do is centred on creating a positive patient experience and providing high-quality health care.”
Patient safety is prioritized from the moment individuals enter the hospital doors. Comprehensive fall risk screening helps to identify high-risk patients and implement fall prevention interventions help minimize the likelihood of falls and related injuries. The organization is also emphasizing the importance of including patients and their families or caregivers in care plans, ensuring they play an active role in reducing fall risks.
“Everything we do is centred on creating a positive patient experience and providing high-quality health care.”
Carnett Howell-Belle, Patient Care Director for Acute Medicine
These efforts include comprehensive fall risk assessments and the enhancement of resources and equipment, updating its Falls Prevention and Risk Reduction Injury Program, staff-training, and a new bedside fall prevention tool designed to educate both health care teams and patients.
“Falls prevention remains our top priority in ensuring both quality and safety at Oak Valley Health,” says Terri Stuart-McEwan, Vice President, Clinical Programs and Chief Nurse Executive. “Over the last year, teams have reviewed the root causes of our falls and engaged multiple stakeholders to ensure that our teams are equipped with the best tools to prevent and reduce harm.
“Our commitment to this initiative is a key element of delivering an exceptional patient experience, driving innovation, enhancing care, and ensuring a safe environment for our patients and families.”
Falls prevention remains our top priority in ensuring both quality and safety at Oak Valley Health.
Terri Stuart-McEwan, Vice President, Clinical Programs and Chief Nurse Executive
As the organization continues to innovate and implement new strategies, adopting safe and self-care practices can enhance overall health and well-being.
“Often incidental and sometimes due to health conditions, medications, or environmental hazards, falls can lead to reduced life expectancy and lower chances of regaining mobility,” says Rupi Dhillon, Patient Care Manager for Care Transitions, Palliative and Complex Care. “They can also prolong a patient’s hospital stay and adversely affect overall recovery and quality of life.”
“Falls can happen anywhere. But there are several proactive measures individuals can take to further reduce risks.”
Five falls tips to consider at home
- Stay active: Engage in daily exercises focused on strengthening mobility and balance.
- Review medications: Regularly consult with a health care provider to evaluate any medications that may cause dizziness or loss of balance.
- Schedule regular check-ups: Ensure consistent vision and hearing assessments. Impaired senses can increase fall risk, making it crucial to keep these sharp.
- Create a safe home environment: Eliminate hazards that could lead to falls by securing rugs, improving lighting, and decluttering walkways. Installing grab bars in bathrooms and using non-slip mats can also enhance safety.
- Use assistive devices: If advised by a health care provider, consider using canes, walkers, or other assistive devices to maintain stability while moving.
As Oak Valley Health strengthens its falls prevention initiatives and continues to support patients and its growing community, individuals are encouraged to connect with their health care provider or caregiver for personalized guidance and additional support.
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This article appeared in the November 2024 issue of The Link. To receive Oak Valley Health’s community newsletter, subscribe now.