מניעת נפילות - אנגלית

RECOMMENDATIONS TO PREVENT FALLS DURING HOSPITALIZATION

Dear patient,

It is important to us that you stay safe while hospitalized at Hadassah. To reduce the chances of accidental falls while you are in hospital, please read the following recommendations:

Do not hesitate to call the nurse for assistance when you need to get out of bed or if you’re feeling week, unsteady or dizzy.

Ask for help walking to the bathroom. Be sure that you are familiar with the way to the bathroom / shower.

Use the call button to call the nurse for assistance when you are in the bathroom / shower and feel weak, unsteady or dizzy.

Before you stand up, sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes.

If you use a walker, cane or wheelchair at home, let the nurse know about this. If possible, you may use these assistive devices while in the hospital. Keep them close at hand.

Wear closed, comfortable shoes when walking around

Pay attention to possible obstacles, such as oxygen tubes, catheters, and equipment that could interfere with your walking.

Make sure the sides of the bed are down, unless you prefer to have them up (or this is recommended by the staff). Please do not try to climb over the sides of the bed – call the nurse for assistance.

Notify the nurse of wet areas or if any liquid spills onto the floor, so this can be cleaned up quickly.

Use only fixed objects that cannot move to support or stabilize yourself. Do not use IV poles, cabinets, wheelchair or other moveable objects for support.

Use the bedside call button as a reminder to call the nurse for help when you want to get off the bed.

Use the railings in the showers, bathrooms and hallways.

If you wear glasses or hearing aids – use them.

If you use a wheelchair, make sure to engage the brakes and avoid bending down to the floor to pick things up. We highly recommend using a “grabber” tool.

Keep important items within reach, such as the call button or your glasses.

Important: There is a greater chance of falling in an unfamiliar environment like a hospital, so it is important to follow these recommendations.

We wish you a speedy recovery

The Department Staff

This information sheet was prepared by Dr. Nurit Porat, Head of the Quality and Safety Department Updated October 2023