What is what to do when a resident falls in a nursing home?

Responding to a Resident Fall in a Nursing Home

When a resident falls in a nursing home, immediate and appropriate action is crucial. Here's a breakdown of the steps to take:

1. Assess the Situation: Before moving the resident, quickly evaluate the scene. Look for any immediate dangers, such as spilled liquids or obstacles. Approach the resident calmly and introduce yourself.

2. Check for Injuries: Conduct a thorough but gentle assessment for injuries. Ask the resident if they are in pain and where it hurts. Look for signs of:

   • Bleeding
   • Deformities
   • Swelling
   • Bruising
   • Loss of Consciousness
   • Pain, especially in the hip, spine, or head.

3. Call for Help: Immediately notify a nurse or other qualified medical professional. Do not attempt to move the resident on your own if you suspect a serious injury, especially a head injury or spinal injury. Follow the facility's protocol for reporting falls.

4. Provide Comfort and Reassurance: Stay with the resident and offer reassurance. Let them know that help is on the way and that you are there to support them. Speak calmly and clearly.

5. Assist with Moving (If Appropriate): If there are no apparent serious injuries and the nurse directs you to assist, help the resident to a chair or bed using proper body mechanics. Get assistance from another staff member if needed. Observe the resident for any delayed reactions or discomfort during the move.

6. Documentation: Thoroughly document the incident. Include:

   • The time and location of the fall
   • What the resident was doing before the fall
   • Any environmental factors that may have contributed to the fall
   • A description of any injuries observed
   • The resident's vital signs (if you are trained to take them)
   • The names of everyone who responded to the fall
   • Any interventions provided
   • The resident's account of the fall

7. Post-Fall Monitoring: Even if the resident appears uninjured, closely monitor them for any changes in condition in the hours following the fall. Report any new symptoms or concerns to the nurse.

8. Incident Report: Complete an incident report according to the facility's policy. This report is crucial for quality improvement and fall prevention efforts.

9. Review and Adjust Fall Prevention Strategies: The fall should trigger a review of the resident's fall prevention plan. This may involve adjusting medications, mobility aids, or environmental modifications.