Abstract
GENERAL PURPOSE: To provide an overview of the assessment and management of risk factors for falls in older adults.
TARGET AUDIENCE: This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES: After participating in this educational activity, the participant should be better able to:
1. Outline the components of an evidence-based falls assessment and identify risk factors for falls.
2. Specify strategies to reduce falls in older adults, especially as related to maintaining skin integrity.
ABSTRACT: Older adult patients may present to skin and wound care clinicians with skin injuries as a result of falls. In addition, chronic wounds associated with the patient's conditions may also increase his/her falls risk. Hence, appropriate assessment and management of the risk of falls in older adult patients are key elements of patient-centered care.