Falls in a Rehabilitation Center: A Retrospective and Comparative Analysis

Abstract

The incidence, characteristics, and predisposing factors of falls in a rehabilitation center over two six-month time periods are reviewed. Education and preventive measures were subsequently introduced. This retrospective review of falls indicated that the following types of patients were at risk for falls: (a) patients 60 and above; (b) patients with the diagnosis of cerebrovascular accident or closed head injury; and (c) patients having a previous history of falling. Findings suggested that nurses should incorporate measures for safety into patient care plans for clients having one or more of the above characteristics.