A Model of Care Delivery to Reduce Falls in a Major Cancer Center

Falls are a leading cause of injuries sustained by hospitalized patients. Injuries sustained as result of patient falls in a cancer hospital are often severe, due to the nature of the underlying medical condition. A case-control study was conducted within a major cancer center to determine risk factors for falls, and a new falls risk assessment instrument was developed. A demonstration project was initiated and consisted of implementing a new model of care delivery to reduce patient falls. For the quarter (Q) following program implementation (Q2 2007), unassisted falls decreased from 4.90 falls to 2.96 falls/1,000 patient days compared to the previous quarter. Unassisted falls were reported at a rate of 3.73 falls/1,000 patient days in Q3 2007. Educational training is being conducted for new staff and float pool companion staff so that every provider on the unit has been exposed to the program.