Fall Prevention Information

To avoid falls in the hospital, the nursing staff at Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital has the following suggestions to help you avoid a fall during your hospitalization.

During Your Stay

• Put on slippers or shoes with non-skid soles on while walking. Re-quest a pair of non-skid "slipper socks" if you feel the need to wear socks to bed.
• Ask for help if you feel weak, dizzy or light-headed when you need to get up.
• Use the call light to ask for assistance. Use the call switch in the bathroom if you become weak or need assistance back to your bed.
• Notify the nursing staff if a spill occurs on the floor. * Ask to have objects, such as bedside tables, phone and call lights, within easy reach at all times.
• Request a bedside commode if you have trouble ambulating (walking) by yourself.
• Keep a night light on.
• Keep the bed on the lowest height setting.

At Home

• Keep as active as possible with some type of exercise program. Exercise increases bone density and makes bones less fragile and less likely to break. Remember that a fear of falling leads to decreased activities, weakness and an increase in falls.
• Do a home safety check.
• Remove electrical cords and telephone wires from walking paths.
• Be sure all rugs are tacked down.
• Avoid using floor polish or wax to reduce slick surfaces on floors.
• Bathrooms: Use non-skid mats or appliques on tub/shower floors, install grab bars in tub/shower and around toilet, and use shower chair/seat if you are weak or dizzy.
• Keep your phone and light within easy reach of your bed.