NR NR452 Evidence Based RUA NR NR452 Evidence Based RUA : Preventing Falls in Hospitals- A Continuing Priority for Patient Safety

Introduction

Despite the overwhelming focus on COVID-19, the importance of preventing falls within hospital settings remains a critical patient safety goal, as highlighted by The Joint Commission (JACHO). The Joint Commission plays a significant role in establishing standards for patient care and safety, and hospitals place great importance on achieving accreditation and certification from this body. Accreditation not only demonstrates a hospital’s commitment to quality care but also instills confidence in the community that they will receive competent and safe care (The Joint Commission, n.d.). Patient falls, particularly those resulting in serious injury or death, are categorized as “sentinel events,” meaning they are preventable occurrences that should never happen. Although falls are deemed “never events,” they still occur in hospital settings, making fall prevention a paramount concern for healthcare providers. This essay aims to explore the importance of fall prevention in hospitals, propose a solution, and discuss the associated barriers and benefits.

Importance of Fall Prevention

On average, between 1.3 and 8.9 falls occur per 1,000 patients in hospitals, a statistic that might seem modest at first glance. However, patient falls are one of the most frequently reported adverse events in hospitals, accounting for approximately 70% of inpatient incidents (Ashok & Khyathi, 2019). This issue is not just a matter of patient safety but also has significant financial implications for hospitals. Each fall leads to an average increase of $4,200 in healthcare costs due to extended hospital stays, the need for additional skilled nursing staff, and other related expenses. These funds, which could have been used to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE), upgrade hospital facilities, or provide staff raises, are instead consumed by the aftermath of preventable falls.

Moreover, the financial strain is exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has further stretched hospital resources in the United States. However, beyond the financial implications, the ethical responsibility of preventing falls cannot be overlooked. The patient, along with their family, remains at the heart of this issue. Serious injuries resulting from falls, such as fractures and subdural hematomas, can lead to significant suffering and even death—outcomes that are entirely preventable with proper care and safety measures (Ashok & Khyathi, 2019).