FALLS, ACCIDENTAL: RISK ASSESSMENT

Course overview

Falls—events in which a person unintentionally drops or comes down freely from an upright or other fixed, secure position to a lower or less erect position on the floor or the ground, for reasons not related to sudden medical conditions (e.g., syncope, seizure)—are prevalent in community-dwelling older adults and are common occurrences in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Falls may cause significant pain and discomfort, injury, and delayed recovery; in addition, falls are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, immobility, and institutionalization. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of evidence-based information on assessment of patients at risk for falls, including the consequences of patient falls, risk factors for falls, the need for fall prevention programs, and the use of risk assessment tools. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.