Skip to main content
Article
Fall Prevention in Hospitals: An Integrative Review
Peer Reviewed Articles
  • Sandra L. Spoelstra, Grand Valley State University
  • Barbara A. Given, Michigan State University
  • Charles W. Given, Michigan State University
Publication Date
2-1-2012
Keywords
  • Hospital,
  • Falls,
  • Fall Prevention,
  • Intervention,
  • Integrative Review
Abstract

Purpose: This article summarize research and draws overall conclusions from the body of literature on fall prevention interventions to provide nurse administrators with a basis for developing evidence-based fall prevention programs in the hospital setting.

Method: Data were obtained from published studies. Thirteen articles were retrieved that focused on fall interventions in the hospital setting. An analysis was performed based on levels of evidence using an integrative review process.

Results: Multifactoral fall prevention intervention programs that included fall risk assessments, door/bed/patient fall risk alerts, environmental and equipment modifications, staff and patient safety education, medication management targeted to specific types, and additional assistance with transfer and toileting demonstrated reduction in both falls and fall injuries in hospitalized patients.

Conclusion: Hospitals need to reduce falls by using multifactoral fall prevention programs using evidence-based interventions to reduce falls and injuries.

Original Citation

Spoelstra, S. L., Given, B. A., & Given, C. W. (2012). Fall Prevention in Hospitals: An Integrative Review. Clinical Nursing Research, 21(1), 92–112. http://doi.org/10.1177/1054773811418106

Citation Information
Sandra L. Spoelstra, Barbara A. Given and Charles W. Given. "Fall Prevention in Hospitals: An Integrative Review" (2012)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/sandra-spoelstra/45/