Management and Prevention of Fall Risk: A Literature Review

Falls are a global problem. Each year, approximately 600,000 falls worldwide result in death, making them a leading cause of traumatic death (World Health Organization, 2018). Due to biological changes, older adults are at increased risk of falling. Approximately half of nursing home residents experience a fall at least once a year (Rapp et al., 2012). Nearly 10% of older patients admitted to hospital units experience falls (Castellini et al., 2017), with more than a quarter suffering physical injuries (Anderson et al., 2012; Basic & Hartwell, 2015). In addition to physical consequences, falls also have psychological and social consequences. Fear of falling, the most common psychological consequence, leads to a reduction in physical and social activities (Lavedan et al., 2018).

Objectives: Identify suitable tools to prevent the risk of falling.

Materials and Methods: A literature review of quantitative studies was performed using the PIO methodology.

P: (Population and Problem) Human Population over 65

I: (Intervention) Interventions implemented to reduce the risk of falling

O: (Outcomes or themes) Prevent the risk of falling

The following filter was used to search for articles:

• Publication Last 5 years

• Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses

• Free full test

Conclusions: Motion sensors placed in rooms, chairs, or the patient’s bed do not reduce the patient’s risk of falling, while good physical activity with targeted strength exercises and, above all, training the patient’s balance reduces the risk of falling.

Keywords: Nurse-fall Risk-prevention