Skip to main content
CSTSetup
Dictionary

fall precautions

The set of safety steps nurses use to keep a client from falling.

fawl pree-KAW-shunz noun

What it means

Actions taken for clients at risk of falls, often after a fall risk score such as the Morse Fall Scale. Common steps are keeping the bed in its lowest position with the wheels locked, the call light and personal items within reach, nonskid footwear, good lighting, a clear path, regular rounding and toileting, and bed or chair alarms when needed. Restraints are not a fall precaution and can increase injury.

For the nurse

Reassess fall risk on admission, after a change in condition, after a fall and on transfer. Teach the client to call for help before getting up.

At a glance

Also writtenfall prevention, fall-prevention

Related terms

restraint

Any device, drug or method used to limit a person's movement or behavior that they cannot easily remove or refuse.

Filed under

Look up another word