Staff across NHS Lanarkshire are being encouraged to make a pledge to help prevent falls as part of Falls Prevention Awareness Week.
The week, which runs from Monday 18 September, highlights that everyone has a role to play in preventing a fall.
Jane Kelly, Health Improvement Team Leader, said: “Falls prevention isn’t just about avoiding injuries. It’s about preserving the independence, dignity and quality of life of our patients. As healthcare professionals, we have a responsibility to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to prevent falls, enabling them to live their lives to the fullest.
“Falls Prevention Week serves as a crucial reminder that our collective efforts can make a significant impact on the wellbeing of our patients. By raising awareness, sharing valuable information and promoting proactive measures, we can empower individuals to take control of their safety and mobility. Ultimately reducing fall related injuries.”
Simple actions like talking about falls prevention at an early stage, ensuring the person’s call bell is within easy reach, removing trip hazards and knowing where you can access resources to support the people you work with can make a big difference.
Tweet @falls_network with your pledge and don’t forget to tag @NHSLanarkshire
Staff are also encouraged to share information with the people they work with and their carers and families about how they can prevent falls.
This includes:
- Keeping active
- Looking after your feet.
- Looking after your vision and hearing.
- Managing your medication and reviewing it with a medical professional regularly.
- Identifying hazards around the home and when you are out and about.
- Moving around safely.
- Eating healthily – including staying hydrated
For further information, visit the Falls Prevention Hub: https://www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/services/falls/
Webinars
A number of webinars will also be held during the week. For further information and to register, visit: Falls Awareness Week | Medline UK
Title: Post Falls Responses
Julie Windsor MSc RGN, Patient Safety Clinical Lead Medical Specialties/Older People from NHS England and Improvement and Dr Julie Whitney, National Audit of Inpatient Falls clinical lead, Royal College of Physicians (RCP)
Date: Tuesday, 19 September 2023
Title: Improving Post Fall Management QI Project
Shona MacKinnon, Hospital Falls Co-coordinator from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHS GGC)
Date: Wednesday, 20 September 2023
Title: Free Falling – focusing on long stays and evaluating the range of free algorithms available.
Tara Marshall, RN MA Pt Safety, Director at These Hands Academy
Date: Thursday, 21 September 2023
