Fall prevention behavior among hospitalized elderly patients

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to check fall prevention behavior among elderly patients admitted to a hospital, by assessing the indicators of a nursing outcome from the "Nursing Outcomes Classification" (NOC).Methods: This is a quantitative, cross-sectional, survey conducted with elderly patients admitted to a university hospital. For collecting data, a validated instrument was applied, consisting of NOC indicators of the nursing outcome mentioned above. Results:The indicator asks for physical assistance to the patient, it was correlated to fall within the last six months, and the indicators agitation control and use of safe actions during transfer were associated with difficulty in walking. Conclusion:Fall prevention behavior by the elderly patient during hospital stay is a co-responsibility of her/his companion and the nursing team. There is a need to train nurses regarding patient safety measures, focusing on preventing falls and encouraging safe behavior among hospitalized elderly patients.