Falls in hospitals or inpatient settings, cause distress to patients and their families and the consequences of falls can impact physical, emotional and mental health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
People in hospital settings, particularly older people are at increased risk of falls, largely because of co-occurring conditions but younger patients may also be at risk of falling during their hospital stay e.g. when under effects of anaesthesia or medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Falls can cause a loss of confidence and limit normal activities and can lead to an increased length of stay. The most significant injuries are fractures, especially hip fractures, which can have a devasting impact on people. Unfortunately, a small number of patients die each year in hospital as a direct result of a fall. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Falls can also be a source of complaints from patients and their families, and staff may be impacted emotionally or mentally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
On this page, and on the other webpages, you will find resources to help manage the risk of falls and to be able to support patients, families, and carers.<\/p>\n\n\n