PathWell Home Healthcare Step Right Falls Prevention Protocol

PathWell’s in-Home Healthcare Adheres to Medication Management Protocols to Help Minimize the Impact of the Patient’s Condition

Our fall prevention program addresses:

Use good lighting in all rooms
Place frequently used items in easy to reach places
Set up furniture so that there are clear paths around it
Remove throw rugs and other tripping hazards from the floor
Wear non-skid flat shoes/socks
Use non-slip mats in your bathtub or shower
Use assistive devices such as handrails, raised toilet seats, grab bars or shower chairs as recommended

Identify specific patient dysfunctions, conditions, and medications that may be contributing to balance issues
The patient’s care team will activate an individualized falls prevention program to increase safe activity levels, decrease the fear of falling, set realistic goals and change the environmental factors reducing risks
Home exercise plan that focuses on strength, balance and endurance exercises delivered by a licensed therapist in the home that can greatly decrease falls
Balance interventions emphasize practical strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels along with balance control
Strengthening interventions emphasize practical strategies to reduce the number of falls, increase activity levels and regain muscle strength that is lost during natural aging or a chronic disease
Mobility training emphasizes on safe ambulation and educates patients on new ways to achieve their personal functioning goals
Increased activity levels help fight social isolation and loss of muscle strength and balance increasing the risk of falling
Reduce joint point and inflammation
Identify sensible clothing and shoes suitable for both comfort and walking
Identify areas in the home where assistive devices are needed, and install or obtain the required equipment including walkers, handrails, raised seats, grab bars, and more
Remove all hazards in the home and light up patient’s living space

History of falls-Patients with a history of falls in the past 3 months should be considered at higher risk for falls
Mobility problems and use of assistive devices-Patients who have problems with their gat, or who use a cane or walker, are more likely to fall
Medications-Patients who take many medicines that could cause sedation, confusion, impaired balance, or orthostatic blood pressure changes are at higher risk for falls
Mental status-Patients with delirium, dementia, or psychosis may be agitated and confused, putting them at risk for falls
Continence-Patients who have urinary frequency, or who have frequent toileting needs, are at higher risk