Keywords

accidental fall, hospitals, inpatients, nursing, patient rooms, quality of healthcare, safety, toilet facilities

Authors

1. Tzeng, Huey-Ming PhD, RN

Abstract

This qualitative study determined the prevalence of inpatient falls that were associated with toileting in a Michigan community hospital. Of all falls, 45.2% were related to toileting. The most common theme was falling on the way from the bed or chair to the bathroom. Nurses should focus on safe patient transfers and on using the completed risk assessment and should develop an individualized prevention plan for each patient based on their needs.