NURS-FPX 6030 MSN Practicum and Capstone ​​​​​​​Problem Statement The Increasing Incidence of Falls Among the Geriatric Community

Needs Assessment

Addressing Geriatric Falls: A Multifaceted Approach

The pressing need this project aims to address includes health promotion, quality improvement, and prevention, with a specific focus on geriatric falls within community settings. This need is crucial as falls among the elderly not only result in physical injuries but also impact mental well-being, leading to reduced mobility, social isolation, and diminished overall quality of life. Notably, adults aged 65 and older experience the highest number of fatal falls globally, highlighting the urgency of this issue (WHO, 2021). Moreover, data from the CDC indicates that 25% of seniors fall each year, with a doubled likelihood of recurring falls post-initial fall (CDC, 2021). Thus, implementing a community-based fall prevention program tailored to individual needs is imperative to mitigate fall risks and enhance overall well-being among the elderly population.

Population and Settings

Targeting Vulnerable Geriatric Patients in Community Settings

Our project focuses on geriatric patients in community settings with a history of falls and managing multiple comorbidities. This population is particularly vulnerable due to the intersection of natural aging frailties, previous fall risks, and managing concurrent health conditions. Community settings lack specialized infrastructure or protocols found in healthcare facilities, exposing the elderly to common hazards and limiting immediate access to professional medical assistance post-fall. Introducing a community-based fall prevention program aims to create a safer environment for the elderly where they reside, thereby enhancing their overall well-being.

Intervention Overview

Tailored Interventions for Effective Fall Prevention

To address the pressing issue of falls among the geriatric population in community settings, our intervention proposes personalized exercise routines, targeted strength training programs, and structured balance training sessions. These interventions focus on enhancing physical capacity and improving balance, key factors in fall prevention. Implementing these interventions within community settings is strategic, considering the lack of specialized fall prevention programs in such environments. However, challenges in implementation include access to specialized trainers, consistent monitoring, and robust engagement strategies to ensure elderly participation.

Comparison of Approaches

Exploring Interprofessional Alternatives

Considering the proposed interventions, three interprofessional alternatives emerge. Firstly, comprehensive medication reviews by pharmacists can address potential drug-induced dizziness or balance issues, emphasizing collaborative care (Eckert et al., 2023). Secondly, physical therapy sessions led by specialized therapists can target specific balance and strength deficiencies unique to each elderly individual (Tapley et al., 2021). Thirdly, occupational therapists can conduct home hazard assessments, recommending modifications to reduce fall risks in domestic settings (Ziebart et al., 2021). While these alternatives highlight an interprofessional approach, challenges include additional costs and potential patient resistance.

Initial Outcome Draft

Aiming for Significant Reduction in Fall Incidents

The primary outcome of our intervention is to achieve a noticeable reduction of at least 20% in fall incidents among the geriatric population within community settings over eight months. This outcome emphasizes our commitment to quality improvement and injury prevention while providing a clear benchmark for success. Evaluation criteria include monthly fall tallies, participant feedback sessions, and comparison of current fall rates against baseline data.

Time Estimate

Developing and Implementing the Intervention

Our community-based fall prevention program is projected to develop over two months, encompassing initial groundwork and resource acquisition. Implementation will span eight months, involving onboarding elderly participants, routine check-ins, and progress monitoring. Challenges may arise from low patient adherence and unforeseen events, necessitating contingency plans and open communication channels.

Literature Review

Supporting Evidence for Tailored Interventions

Scholarly literature emphasizes the necessity of addressing fall prevention among the geriatric population within community settings. Studies highlight the high incidence of falls among the elderly and underscore the effectiveness of tailo