Skilled nurse instructed patient on safety measures to avoid injuries and falls such as keeping adequate lighting during the day and night and was educated on proper use of assistive device to prevent falls.
Patient was instructed on strategies that can significantly help decrease the risk of a fall such as: Skid-proof mats or strips in the shower and bathtub, Removal of furniture that can slip away if grabbed accidentally for support, supportive non-slip footwear and not walking in stocking feet. Patient currently uses cane while ambulating and states that it helps her with her balance. Patient advised that side effects of most medications taking can cause dizziness and to report and dizziness so that it can be addressed by MD. Patient voiced understanding SN will continue to monitor.
Patient was instructed on list of measures to prevent falls at home: If use a cane put rubber tips on it. Keep the house well lit especially stairways, porches and outside walkways. Use night lights in areas such as hallways and bathroom.
Instructed patient to install light switches at both the top and bottom of stairways.
Instructed patient in the importance to use the ambulatory aids to prevent accidental falls.
Instructed on the importance of using adjunctive equipment (e.g., cane) as a measure aimed to reducing the risk of falls/injuries.
Patient was instructed on other reasons Why Older People Fall such as: Impaired vision & for example, needing new glasses or having cataracts, Excess use of alcohol or sedatives.
Patient was instructed on strategies that can significantly help decrease the risk of a fall such as: Skid-proof mats or strips in the shower and bathtub, Removal of furniture that can slip away if grabbed accidentally for support, supportive non-slip footwear and not walking in stocking feet.
Patient was instructed on balance. With age, a combination of factors decreases balance. The nerve endings in our feet don't detect impulses as readily and the balance control centers in our brain and our ears operate more slowly. Age-related changes in vision and hearing, even when subtle, also contribute to the decline in balance.
Patient instructed to breathe deeply five or six times after experiencing a fall. In the event of any injuries do not try to get up, call a family member immediately for assistance.