Fall Prevention: Simple Steps to Lower Your Risk of Falling
Safety is a partnership. By following these simple tips and trusting our team to provide the necessary support—from non-skid socks to walking assistance—we can create a safer environment. Together we can prevent falls!
Things patients can do:
- Wear non-skid footwear that stays on your feet.
- Bring and use your assistive device (walker, cane, wheelchair, crutches) when walking, or let us know if you need a wheelchair while you are here.
- If you wear glasses or hearing aids, please use them.
- Ask for help if you need assistance to and from the bathroom, exam room, or around the clinic.
- Use the handrails in the bathroom and hallway.
- After sitting or lying down for a long time, sit up and make sure you feel stable before standing.
- Tell your nurse or provider if medicines make you dizzy, weak, or light-headed. If you feel this way, please do not try to get up on your own, ask us for help.
Things we may do:
- Show you how to alert us if you need assistance.
- Help you walk or transfer with an assistive device.
- Communicate with your care team if you are identified as a fall risk.
- Apply yellow armband so staff know to offer assistance.
- Direct you to visual tool and fall safety instructional handout for your reference.
- Provide wheelchair to help you move between appointments.
- Provide non-skid socks if you need to remove your shoes or slippers.
Ultimately, keeping you safe is a matter of teamwork and communication. Please don't hesitate to ask for a hand. We're here to help you move safely throughout our clinics.