How to Prevent Falls in Hospitals

It may be surprising to find out that falls in a hospital are relatively common. The combination of a new environment, weak patients and lack of supervision can all lead to dangerous falls. If you're in the hospital for any reason or have a loved one who is, a few simple steps can help maintain safety and prevent slips and falls.

• Slips and falls are an unfortunate and commonplace occurrence in hospitals. If you have to spend any time in a hospital, or know someone who needs to, educating yourself or your loved one can help save dangerous situations from occurring.


• Make sure the hospital staff performs a fall assessment and puts the results in the chart. There are some conditions that make it more likely for a fall to occur. Risk factors can include the strength of the patient, the reason for the hospital stay, the age of the patient as well as unrelated diagnosis’s like dementia or Alzheimer’s. If the staff is aware of the risks they can take better care of the patient.


• Never walk around barefoot or in plain socks. The hospital will provide slipper socks with a non-slip grip on the foot. These should be worn anytime the patient is mobile. 


• Keep an eye out for risk factors around the hospital. Spills on the floor or dropped paper can easily create a dangerous situation. Hospital staff should be alerted so this can be attended to.


• Request that bed alarms and side rails are used for loved ones who have a problem with mobility. This will prevent falls from those who are too weak or unsteady to move around on their own. If bed rails are used a call button should be placed in an area where the patient can reach it at all time in case they need to get up.