In the Hospital
Preventing falls is very important to your safety. Several things can contribute to the possibility of you falling in the hospital:
§ Your illness may cause you to feel weak and unable to walk without assistance.
§ Your medication may make you feel sleepy, dizzy, weak, and shaky.
§ Your vision may not be as good as it is at home due to different lighting, medication effects, not wearing your glasses at times.
§ Your room is not familiar to you. The bathroom is set up differently than your bathroom at home.
§ Your footwear is different than what you're used to at home.
§ The flooring may be different than what you're used to at home.
§ Ask for assistance any time you feel weak or unsteady. Do not try to get up or move around without assistance. Never try to climb over the side rails of your bed.
§ Wear your glasses at all times unless your doctor tells you not to. Be sure the light is on when you are walking in a room.
§ Use the handrails in your bathroom and be sure to always turn the bathroom light on.
§ Wear shoes or slippers that are sturdy and won't slip on carpet or tile floors. Let staff know if you notice any spills on the floors. If you are in pain, you have the right to proper pain management.
At Home
Some useful tips for preventing falls at home include:
§ Turn on a light before entering a dark room.
§ Keep electrical cords, telephone cords and oxygen lines out of your path.
§ Have a telephone close by you.
§ Wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles.
§ Keep hallways and heavy traffic areas well lit. Use nightlights in shadowed areas.
§ Be aware of your pets at all times so there is no risk for tripping over them.
§ When leaving your home, ask for assistance if you feel weak, have problems falling or are unsteady on your feet. Take any canes, walkers or other devices that you normally use to get around with you. Ask a friend or family member to go with you.
Click Here to See a Fall-Proof House
