Falls Management

In IHHC, there are several measures that home care team does to reduce a person serve risk of falling.

• Conduct a Fall Risk Assessment to identify factors which could contribute to incidents of falls in the home and provide suggestions for assuring a safe home environment.
• Review the patient’s history of falling.
• Review all medications taken by the patient, including over-the-counter medication and home remedies. When applicable, discuss with the physician.
• Monitor the patient’s cardiovascular status, heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure for cardiac arrhythmias and orthostatic hypotension.
• Encourage adequate hydration and nutrition.
• Obtain orders for a physical therapist to: − Evaluate the patient’s gait and balance − Evaluate the strength and function of a patient’s lower extremities Identify home environmental hazards that could contribute to falls and make recommendations for modifications.
• Instruct the patient to wear nonskid footwear or properly fitting shoes.
• Place assistive devices, such as walkers and canes, within a patient’s reach.
• Include the patient, family members, and any home care aides in the development of an individualized home safety plan.
• Collaborate with the patient’s family to provide assistance, as needed, while maintaining the patient’s independent functioning.
• Communicate the patient’s “fall risk” status and risk factors during communication with other home care staff who may be involved with the patient’s care.