Falls

Question 1

What morbidities are linked with falls?

Answer 1

Hypothermia
Dehydration
Pressure sores
Rhabdomyolysis
Venous thromboembolism
Bronchopneumonia

Question 2

What three main factors are implicated in falls?

Answer 2

Person
Environment
Activity

Question 3

Give examples of physiology of ageing associated with falls

Answer 3

Reduced reactions
Sarcopenia
Reduced vision
Reduced peripheral sensation

Question 4

Give some common causes of syncope

Answer 4

Arrhythmias
Orthostatic hypotension
Vasovagal
Aortic stenosis

Question 5

What is orthostatic hypotension?

Answer 5

A fall in SBP >20mmHg or DBP >10mmHg after 3 minutes of standing

Question 6

Give some key neurological disorders implicated in falls

Answer 6

Cervical myelopathy
Peripheral neuropathy
Lumbar stenosis
Parkinson’s

Question 7

What type of lens can cause falls?

Answer 7

Bifocal/varifocal

Question 8

Give some extrinsic risk factors implicated in falls

Answer 8

Medication
Alcohol
Clutter
Inappropriate footwear

Question 9

What classes of drugs can increase fall risk?

Answer 9

Benzodiazepines
Neuroleptics
Antihypertensives
Antidepressants
Anticholinergics
Parkinsons medications

Question 10

What tests can be used to assess falls?

Answer 10

Timed up and go

Berg balance scale

Question 11

What tool is recommended to assess fracture risk?

Answer 11

Q fracture

Question 12

What intervention has the strongest evidence to prevent falls?

Answer 12

Strength and balance training (3x week for 12 weeks)

Question 13

What medications can be started in falls?

Answer 13

Calcium/Vit D supplements