What is a fall risk assessment?Falls are common in adults 65 years of age and older. In the United States, about a third of older adults who live at home and about half of people living in nursing homes fall at least once a year. There are many factors that increase the risk of falling in older adults. These include mobility problems, balance disorders, chronic illnesses, and impaired vision. Many falls cause at least some injury. These range from mild bruising to broken bones, head injuries, and even death. In fact, falls are a leading cause of death in older adults. Show
A fall risk assessment checks to see how likely it is that you will fall. It is mostly done for older adults. The assessment usually includes:
Other names: fall risk evaluation, fall risk screening, assessment, and intervention What is it used for?A fall risk assessment is used to find out if you have a low, moderate, or high risk of falling. If the assessment shows you are at an increased risk, your health care provider and/or caregiver may recommend strategies to prevent falls and reduce the chance of injury. Why do I need a fall risk assessment?The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Geriatric Society recommend yearly fall assessment screening for all adults 65 years of age and older. If the screening shows you are at risk, you may need an assessment. The assessment includes performing a series of tasks called fall assessment tools. You also may need an assessment if you have certain symptoms. Falls often come without warning, but if you have any of the following symptoms, you may be at higher risk:
What happens during a fall risk assessment?Many providers use an approach developed by the CDC called STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries). STEADI includes screening, assessing, and intervention. Interventions are recommendations that may reduce your risk of falling. During the screening, you may be asked several questions including:
During an assessment, your provider will test your strength, balance, and gait, using the following fall assessment tools:
If you can't hold position 2 or position 3 for 10 seconds or you can't stand on one leg for 5 seconds, it may mean you are at higher risk for a fall. There are many other fall assessment tools. If your provider recommends other assessments, he or she will let you know what to expect. Will I need to do anything to prepare for a fall risk assessment?You don't need any special preparations for a fall risk assessment. Are there any risks to a fall risk assessment?There is a small risk that you may fall as you do the assessment. What do the results mean?The results may show you have a low, moderate, or high risk of falling. They also may show which areas need addressing (gait, strength, and/or balance). Based on your results, your health care provider may make recommendations to reduce your risk of falling. These may include:
If you have questions about your results and/or recommendations, talk to your health care provider. References
Which factors increase the risk of falls in a patient select all that apply?Risk factors include age, weakness on one side, the use of a cane or walker, history of dizziness or lightheadedness, low blood pressure, and weakness.
Which extrinsic factors increases the risk of falls among older adults quizlet?Poor lighting, inappropriate footwear, improper use of assistive devices, and the unfamiliar environment of a hospital room are extrinsic factors that increase the risk of falls among older adults.
Which intrinsic factors may contribute to falls in older adults select all that apply one some or all responses may be correct?Environmental hazards, inappropriate foot wear, and improper use of assistive devices are extrinsic factors that are responsible for falls in older adults. Impaired vision and cognitive impairment are intrinsic factors that are responsible for falls in older adults.
Which older patient is at the highest risk for falling quizlet?Older adults aged 80 years and older and those with multiple diagnoses are at higher risk for falls.
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