High risk populations for falls

Early identification of falls risk factors enables us to tailor care and put specific safety measures in place to safeguard against falls.

Assessment of risk factors

  • age (children 0-4 years, 65 and over and between 50 and 64 who are at high risk of falling due to underlying conditions)
  • cultural background
  • patients admitted following a fall
  • past history of falls
  • cognitive impairment, including delirium
  • maternity patients
  • patients at end of life

Side effect Suggested strategies 
Orthostatic (postural) hypotension
  • Recognition by taking and documenting lying and standing BP regularly.
  • Reporting abnormal readings.
  • Asking the patient if they are dizzy/reporting dizziness.
  • Using a stepped approach when mobilising.
  • Ensure adequate fluid level/ intake by patient.
Sedation or overactivity
  •  Assess level of consciousness frequently.
  • Consider ambulating later in day if early morning sedation levels are higher.
  • Assess appropriateness of mobility aids; in conjunction with perceptual disturbances, aggression risk and impulsivity.
Extrapyramidal side-effects/abnormal movements Assess for:
  • abnormal gait
  • akathisia (an inner feeling of restlessness)
  • abnormal movements
  • drug induced Parkinsonism – these are usually dose related.
Report/encourage Medical Review if noted.
Clinical setting to prevent falls in at risk population groups
Falls prevention in maternity patients
Falls prevention in patients experiencing delirium
Falls prevention information related to inpatients with a mental health diagnosis
Last reviewed: 02-05-2024