Preventing Falls

Most falls occur when patients try to get out of bed on their own, and many occur while trying to get to the bathroom. You can prevent falls by:

• Asking for assistance from nursing staff if you have been instructed to (especially at night)
• Keeping your call button near you when in your room
• Reporting any spills or tripping hazards to staff
• Wearing footwear with rubber soles to prevent slipping
• Making sure that you have adequate light to see. If you wear glasses, keep them within reach.
• Working with nursing staff to schedule time to use the bathroom. Some medications may cause you to need to go to the bathroom more often.
• Listening carefully to instructions provided by staff - particularly when you are being assisted to move or walk