Authors: (including presenting author): :
Wong KW(1), Pun KL(1), Yuen SY(1), Yeung PY(2), Chan YYR(2), Lau KM(3), Wong SMR(4), Chan PY(5), Wong PY(6), Siu CS(2), Yeung KL(2), Wan CM(7)
Affiliation: :
(1)Nursing Services Division
(2)Department of Medicine & Rehabilitation (3)Department of Physiotherapy (4)Department of Occupational Therapy
(5)Administrative Services Division
(6)Quality and Safety Office
(7)Department of Ophthalmology
Keyword 1: :
Fall Prevention
Keyword 2: :
Patient Safety
Introduction: :
Falls have been ranked among the top three risks in Tung Wah Eastern Hospital's (TWEH) risk registry for the past five years. While significant efforts were made to prevent inpatient falls, this experience now extends to include outpatients. To address fall-related injuries and ensure patient safety, a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach was developed cover all stages of patient care.
Objectives: :
-Review recent fall incidents, identify risk factors, and implement improvement measures using a multidisciplinary approach
-Reduce falls among inpatients and outpatients, ensuring a safe environment throughout the hospital
-Raise awareness and promote effective prevention strategies among healthcare professionals
Methodology: :
A quarterly analysis of fall incidents was conducted across departments to identify contributing factors and formulate improvement measures. Innovative initiatives and advanced technology were introduced to reduce the workload of frontline staff, minimize physical restraint use and enhance patient experience. High-risk outpatients were identified in clinics, and corresponding measures were implemented. Biannual environmental safety rounds, conducted by a multidisciplinary team, focused on reducing environmental hazards. Incident reviews and shared lessons learned further increased staff awareness of fall prevention.
Result & Outcome: :
An inpatient and outpatient fall statistical analysis has been conducted at TWEH since 2Q2023. The inpatient fall rates were 0.11 in 23/24 and 0.09 in 24/25, respectively. Outpatient fall rates remained 0.02-0.04, despite the double number of outpatient visits. Portable call buttons, wireless safety belt sensors, and leg separators for healthcare chairs helped patients seek assistance and enabled nurses to reach the patient before possible falls. Environmental modifications in the car park helped prevent tripping and created barrier-free, wheelchair-accessible routes within the hospital. For outpatients, patient education and additional support for patients with specific needs, e.g. blurred vision were provided. Additionally, posters and reminders with easy-to-follow practical tips and audio announcements were used to raise public awareness.
Various interventions and initiatives were implemented to prevent falls in TWEH. By adopting a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, the fall risk is reduced, and patient safety is enhanced.
