A volunteer companion‐observer intervention reduces falls on an acute aged care ward

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Purpose – Falls are the most frequently reported adverse event in hospitalised patients and carry a risk of great harm for the frail elderly. This intervention aimed to prevent high‐risk in‐patients on an acute aged care ward from falling.Design/methodology/approach – Patients assessed at high falls risk were accommodated in a room staffed by volunteer companion‐observers. The volunteers engaged them in conversation, played cards, opened meals and used the call bell to summon nurses if patients attempted to move from the bed or chair without assistance. Because of occupational health and safety considerations, the volunteers did not assist patients to ambulate.Findings – The falls rate in the acute aged care ward decreased by 44 percent (p<0.000). No patients fell in the observation room when volunteers were present. Relatives of participating in‐patients expressed appreciation of the volunteer role, in terms of increased safety and also companionship. Volunteers exercised initiative in determining their ...