elderly/frail non-injury fall cpg Flashcards
what are the three broad categories that cause elderly falls?
environmental/mechanicl
known medical/pharmocolgical
unanticipated event - AMI, seizure
what are the key factors to asses when assing a fall?
sensory imparment, medications - recent cahnges or multiple speciafically cardiovascular
mobility issues
altered cognitive state
continece issues
environmental saftey
hx falls
depression
what is a fall?
where a person inadverdently comes to the ground, floor or lower level
what to assess when using guideline?
does pt have full recolection?
is pt likley to have fallen due to mechanical environmental issue that can be resolved
was pt able to get up or call quickly
are they low risk for another fall?
what to do if u are leaving at ho,e?
contact pt gp to do falls assesment or get consent to contact family member and outline risks and encourage gp follow up
what to do if pt needs medical follow up?
strongly reccomend transport - non-emerge if appropriate
if refuse
contact gp for assesment and get consent to contact family to support pt
