Immobility and Falls Flashcards
1
Q
What is a fall?
A
Inadvertently coming to rest on the ground or other lower level without loss of consciousness and other than as a consequence of sudden onset of paralysis, epileptic seizure, excess alcohol intake or overwhelming physical force
2
Q
List outcomes of a fall
A
Injury (soft tissue, fracture, subdural (if head)) Rhabdomyolysis (increased creatinine kinase) Loss of confidence Inability to cope Dependency carer stress Institutionalisation Terminal decline
3
Q
What are main risk factors for falls?
A
Muscle weakness History of falls Gait deficit Balance deficit Assistive device (walking aid) Visual impairment Arthritis Depression Cognitive impairment Age >80
4
Q
List 3 situational factors of falls
A
Medications
Alcohol
Urgency to urinate
5
Q
List 3 extrinsic factors of falls
A
Inappropriate footwear
Environmental hazards
Poor lighting
6
Q
What 3 processes are involved in maintaining control of balance?
A
Sensory input
Central Processing
Motor output (muscular activity)
7
Q
List intrinsic factors that cause falls
A
Gait and balance problems (postural instability and vertigo) Syncope (CV disorder, vagal) Chronic illness (neuro, MSK) Visual problems Acute illness Cognitive disorder Vit D deficiency
