Staff will assess your risk of falling and discuss the results.
A falls prevention care plan will be implemented to suit your needs.

Preventing falls

In general, to help you to avoid falls while in hospital, please:

  • Wear well fitted shoes when walking.
  • Don’t walk in socks, stockings or loose slippers.
  • Sit on the edge of the bed for a moment when you get up, to get your balance.
  • Always ring for a nurse when you get out of bed for the first time after surgery, or if you are feeling light-headed.
  • Ring for the nurse to walk with you if you feel unsteady.
  • Sit down to put shoes and socks on, or when drying your feet after a shower. Don’t stand on only one leg at a time.
  • Check that you can find your call bell before getting back into bed.
  • Never leave your walking stick/frame behind, even for a short distance.
  • Familiarise yourself with your room, furniture and bathroom.
  • Wear comfortable clothing that is not too long or too loose.
  • Always keep your fluid level up.
  • Keep your glasses close at hand
  • Wear the non-slip socks that the nurses will give you

Further information about preventing falls

Disclaimer This document describes the generally accepted practice at the time of publication only. It is only a summary of clinical knowledge regarding this area. The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital makes no warranty, express or implied, that the information contained in this document is comprehensive. They accept no responsibility for any consequence arising from inappropriate application of this information.

  • Preventing Falls in Hospital #73
  • Owner: Inpatient Ward
  • Last Reviewed: August 26, 2019
  • Next Review: September 24, 2022