If the score ranges between 8 and 16, the more aggressive Fall Prevention Protocol II begins (Table 2). If the total score is between 3 and 7 points, Fall Prevention Protocol I is initiated (Table 1). This tool lists 12 major fall risk factors, with a point value assigned to each factor. Most recently, the members of the Fall Prevention Committee custom-designed a fall risk assessment tool with associated protocols tailored to our geriatric population (Figure). Early on, the floor wax was changed to a slip-resistant product. These rounds ensure that there is proper lighting throughout the facility, that the beds are in good working condition (including the brakes), that there are no water-spillage problems, and that all the flooring, baseboards and handrails are secure and intact. The environmental services and maintenance departments continue with their weekly rounds to ensure environmental safety. All staff are regularly in-serviced on this program on a departmental level and during the semi-annual facility-wide mandatory education programs. The colorful star is a signal to observe the resident closely and to intervene if the resident displays any unsafe behaviors (e.g., getting up from his/her wheelchair without the necessary assist). This program serves as an alert to all staff, including clinical (medical, nursing, rehabilitation, dietary and social service) as well as housekeeping, laundry, maintenance and clerical staff. A colorful “falling star” sticker is placed over the bed and on the side of the wheelchair and/or assistive device of any resident identified by the interdisciplinary team as high risk. A very successful “falling star” identification program was initiated in 1997 to identify those residents at high risk for falls. Members of the committee include representatives from nursing, administration, medicine, rehabilitation, security, maintenance, environmental services and pharmacy.

We strive to provide a safe environment while continuing with our successful efforts to remain “restraint-free.” A specialized Fall Prevention Committee was formally established in 1997, whose mission is the reduction of falls through a systematic, multidisciplinary team approach. The staff at Isabella Geriatric Center has always been strongly committed to the reduction of falls among our residents. The Isabella Geriatric Center has mounted a multifaceted attack on resident falls

Catch a falling star