Development of a fall prevention program adapted to the individual risks of elderly persons in facilities

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The aim of this study was to develop a fall-prevention program adapted to the individual risks of elderly patients in a long-term care facility by increasing the caregiving skills and motivation of staff members through mutual action research. The program, developed through the synthesis of seven evidence-based practice studies, consisted of staff education, identification of problems related to fall prevention in the facility by the use of focus group interview, assessment of individual risks, implementation of care adapted to the risks, consultation about fall-related problems, and modification of care in case of falls. The fall-prevention program was shown to be effective, especially in reducing injuries. The fall rate per 1, 000 residential days was reduced from 7.6 to 5.0 in the intervention ward, while it went from 4.8 to 4.3 in the control ward. The percentage of injured persons in the intervention ward was significantly reduced from 22.6% during the 6 months before the intervention period to 9.7% during the 6-month intervention period, and the number of injuries was reduced from 13 to 3. No one was harmed by the program. The process went from expectation and anxiety regarding an unpredictable process to feeling of achievement through role conflicts. Empowerment was considered a driving force. The change agents for staff members were the response of patients and family members to satisfactory care, and the recognition of the need for cooperation with other medical staff members. On the other hand, the change agent for the fall prevention team members was recognition of staff members who could identify individual risks and had potential care skills. In conclusion, the fall-prevention program was shown to be acceptable for use among elderly individuals in a long-term care facility by increasing the caregiving skills and motivation of staff members.