Which interventions can reduce the risk of falls in a long-term care facility?

Keeping the bed in the lowest position is an effective intervention for reducing the risk of falls in a long-term care facility. This practice helps ensure that if a resident does accidentally fall, the distance to the floor is minimized, thereby reducing the likelihood of serious injury. It also makes it easier for the resident to get in and out of bed safely. The lower bed position provides a safer environment, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those at high risk of falls.

Other interventions, such as administering diuretics at night, can contribute to increased frequency of bathroom trips, which may heighten the risk of falls. Elevating beds for better comfort does not necessarily enhance safety and could create a greater distance for a potentially harmful fall. Removing alarms from beds eliminates an important safety mechanism that alerts staff when a resident is attempting to get up, leading to increased fall risk.