What is a fall?

The consequence of any event which results in the individual coming to rest on the ground, against their will (WHO)

Who is at highest risk of falling?

• Adults over 65 and young children
• If you take medications for sleeping, high blood pressure, glucose
• Disoriented, dizzy and post-operative patients

How to prevent falls?

• Do not stand up quickly, sit on the edge of the bed for at least 2 minutes, especially if you have been lying down for a long time
• Wear appropriate footwear. Use a cane or walker if you have trouble walking
• Do not walk barefoot or only in socks
• Ask for help if the floor is wet
• Keep the bed rails up
• Keep good lighting

Remember: “If you have difficulty walking or getting up, ask for help to the staff, do not do it alone, you may fall”

Press the bell if you need help getting up, going to the bathroom, or if you feel dizzy.

Mechanical restraint

Therapeutic restraints consist of the use of mechanical immobilization systems for the chest, wrists, ankles, etc. It must be applied discreetly and with a guarantee of safety. The main objective of nursing is to prevent behaviors that require the use of restraints, using them as a last resort.

When to use?

• To prevent personal injury (self-harm, accidental falls, etc.) and harm to others
• To avoid disruption of the person’s therapeutic program or others
• To facilitate the work of Nursing

Collaboration of family members is important to prevent falls:

• If you move the furniture in the room (armchair, table, etc.) do not forget to move it back
• If you leave the patient alone, inform the nurse on duty
• Keep personal items and the bell at hand
• Sign the authorization for restraint if required for the patient. If you require the therapeutic measure of mechanical restraint, you should ask your nurse for the authorization form.