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Preventing Falls While in the Hospital HF#5461

Miscellaneous

  

 

  

You play an important role in preventing falls.

 

This handout will help you learn how to prevent falls during your stay in the hospital.

 

Safety Tips

 

  • Ask or call for help when getting up out of bed.  It is vital to do this at night. You should always ask for help if you feel weak, tired, or ill.  It is a good idea to ask for help if you have IV lines or tubes that could get in your way.
  • Wear your eyeglasses and hearing aids when needed.
  • Wear non-skid tennis or walking shoes.  These should have rubber soles.  They should be supportive and fit well. 
  • Use your cane, walker, crutches, or braces.
  • Leave the bathroom light on and keep the door open a small amount.  This will act as a nightlight for you.

 

Activities – Beyond your Room

 

Walking in the hallway is good exercise!

 

  • Your nurse and therapist will help you decide if these walks can be done alone.  You may need to do them with the help of family or staff.
  • You may need to leave your room for tests and procedures. Some tests may involve being physically active.  Please wear your glasses, hearing aids, and non-skid shoes.  If needed, bring your cane, walker, or crutches.  The staff will tell you what to bring along with you.

 

Items You May Wish to Bring from Home

 

  • Non-slip shower shoes such as “aqua socks”.  Do not bring sandals.
  • Eyeglasses, hearing aids, braces, cane, walker, and crutches.
  • Non-skid walking shoes.  Good shoes to bring are tennis shoes or walking shoes.

 

References

 

 

The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #6976.

 

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 03/01/2011

Copyright © 03/01/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5461

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