Nursing homes must keep residents safe by adhering to a minimum standards of resident care. Part of that standard includes minimizing hazards for these vulnerable adults. Mitigating fall risks is a part of this process.
Conducting fall evaluations on residents is a fairly straightforward process that can help identify which residents need extra help. This isn’t a one-and-done undertaking. Instead, all residents should be assessed when they enter a facility and regularly after. They should also be evaluated for significant circumstance changes, such as adding a new medication or diagnosis.
Identifying and addressing fall risks
Fall evaluations are crucial in identifying residents with a high risk of falling. By assessing each resident’s mobility, balance, medication side effects and any other contributing factors, nursing homes can take proactive steps to mitigate these risks.
Implementing individualized care plans based on these evaluations can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls. This proactive approach protects the residents from harm and demonstrates the facility’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment.
Documentation of preventive measures
Thorough documentation of fall evaluations and preventive measures is essential in protecting nursing homes from negligence claims. This documentation should include details of the assessment, any identified risks and the steps taken to address those risks, such as modifications to the living environment, physical therapy or assistive devices. In the event of a fall, this documentation can be used to show that the nursing home took appropriate and reasonable steps to prevent falls.
Enhancing staff training and awareness
Regular fall evaluations can also enhance staff training and awareness regarding fall prevention. By understanding the specific risks associated with individual residents, staff can be better equipped to prevent falls through vigilant care and appropriate preventive measures. Continuous education and training based on the outcomes of fall evaluations ensure that all staff members know the best practices in fall prevention.
Legal compliance and standards of care
By adhering to set regulations through comprehensive fall evaluations, nursing homes can demonstrate compliance with those applicable legal standards. This is crucial in the event of a legal dispute. Compliance can provide a strong defense against negligence claims.
