How To Assist Patients With A Fall And Prevent Them From Falling

At-home caregivers have a barrage of things to monitor with their patients. It is their job to provide assistance with daily living and make sure patients are safe. Everyday activities present the potential risk of falls; therefore, it is essential to monitor patients so you can be there to support them if they are falling. 

How to Assist a Patient with a Fall

If a patient begins to feel dizzy, let them sit down on a chair to avoid falling. If they start to fall from a standing position, control the fall and lower the patient to the floor. Do not stop or catch the patient. The head is the most critical part of the body, so make an effort to protect it. 

If the patient has already fallen, assess their injuries. Check if they are feeling dizzy or weak. Check the patient’s breathing, pulse, and blood pressure. If the patient is unconscious, does not have a pulse, or does not breathe, call a hospital, and start CPR. Stay with the patient until professional help arrives. 

How To Prevent Falls 

• Hazard Proofing Your Home — A safe home will help reduce the patient’s likelihood of falling. Ensure the handrails in every room are sturdy to navigate the house easily. Familiarize your patient or loved one with every part of the environment and put everything they need in a place they can reach. Keep floors and walls clean and dry and their room free from clutter.

• Review Your Medication — Make an appointment for the patient to see their health care provider. A doctor can review their medications for side effects that may increase the risk of falling. Sedatives such as antihistamines and some anti-depressants may make the patient tired. If the person you are caring for has to take these medications, be sure to stay extra alert, so you can help in the event of a stumble.