Design elements examined in reducing fall risks

Looking at a range of factors - related to the patient and the environment - together found to be most effective

By Healthcare Facilities Today


With healthcare facilities prepare for the Affordable Care Act (ACA), falls as a preventable occurrence are getting new attention, according to an article on the Healthcare Design website.

Hospital-associated injuries from falls are considered a "never event" by the National Quality Forum (NQF) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and health care facilities are no longer reimbursed by Medicaid for these accidents. 

According to the article, falls most often occur in transfers from the bed to bath area. However, falls are also reported in diagnostic, treatment and other locations.

While recent studies look at both the patient and the environment associated with falls, there’s little detail to describe the effect of specific conditions, like lighting, distance, and visibility.

The article points out the difficulty of studying the problem in a "live" setting where many factors can be viewed in concert. By examining the underlying conditions associated with a fall (for example, visibility), types of solutions can be identified based on project scope.

Read the article.

 

 



September 10, 2013


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Hospitals Recognized for Sustainability, Resilience Achievements

The 496 healthcare organizations have demonstrated leadership in sustainability, environmental stewardship and climate resilience.


Caravel Autism Health Opens New Therapy Clinic in Missouri

The clinic features colorful, sensory-friendly spaces.


On the Lookout: The Software Supply Chain as a Healthcare Cyberattack Vector

Staying watchful of third-party software vendors and their activities is critical for healthcare cybersecurity.


Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center at Clifton Opens

The Clifton center expands health care access in Passaic County by reducing barriers such as travel and wait times.


Suffolk Breaks Ground on Expansion of White Plains Hospital

The 10-story, approximately 500,000-square-foot expansion is slated to open in 2028.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.