What practice steps can you take to reduce the likelihood of slip trip and fall on aged care floor?

Preventing Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents in Aged Care Facilities

Slips, trips, and falls are the most common cause of injuries in aged care facilities. They can result in serious injuries, such as fractures, head injuries, and bruising, which can lead to further health complications and even death.

There are a number of steps that aged care facilities can take to reduce the risk of slip, trip, and fall accidents, including:

1. Assessing the risk of falls.

The first step is to assess the risk of falls for each resident. This can be done using a variety of tools, such as the Falls Risk Assessment and Intervention Tool (FRAIT).

2. Implementing fall prevention measures.

Once the risk of falls has been assessed, fall prevention measures can be implemented. These measures can include:

- Promoting physical activity to residents to improve their balance and coordination.

- Educating residents about the importance of fall prevention.

- Modifying the environment to remove or reduce hazards, such as wet surfaces, uneven flooring, and clutter.

- Ensuring that residents are using assistive devices properly, such as canes and walkers.

- Providing supervision and assistance to residents who are at high risk of falling.

- Installing handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and other areas where residents may need support to get up or down.

3. Monitoring and evaluating fall prevention measures.

It is important to monitor and evaluate fall prevention measures to ensure that they are effective and that any necessary changes are made.

By taking these steps, aged care facilities can reduce the risk of slip, trip, and fall accidents and help to ensure the safety of their residents.

Additional tips for preventing slip, trip, and fall accidents in aged care facilities:

- Use non-slip floor surfaces.

- Keep floors dry and clean.

- Remove clutter from hallways and walkways.

- Make sure that all furniture and equipment is stable and in good condition.

- Provide adequate lighting in all areas of the facility.

- Mark any steps or changes in level with contrasting colors or tape.

- Encourage residents to wear comfortable shoes that fit well.

- Provide assistive devices to residents who need them.

- Train staff on how to prevent slip, trip, and fall accidents.

- Conduct regular safety inspections of the facility.