The Fall Prevention Program at Mount Sinai Hospital Montreal is designed to minimize the risk of patient injury. Research shows that many elderly patients have a higher risk of falling while in the hospital, more so than they do at home. Additionally, once a patient has fallen, they will be more prone to falling again, as their self-confidence has diminished.

Upon admission to the hospital, a nurse will assess patients, within 24 hours, in order to reduce their risk of falling. All staff members caring for a particular patient will be notified of their assessment results in order to further prevent falls from occurring.

Patients are encouraged to work with Mount Sinai Hospital professionals in order to minimize the risk of falling:

• Ensure that staff has placed the call bell within easy reach
• Always use the call bell if unable to reach an object
• Wait for a staff member to respond to your call bell - they will attend to you as quickly as possible
• If unable to walk independently, ask for help
• Wear sensible footwear
• Keep surroundings neat – cords and oxygen tubings can cause falls

If a patient is at risk of falling, the medical staff will request an occupational therapy or physiotherapy consultation. These professionals will help the patient to walk independently and manage day-to-day activities such as walking, dressing, bathing and lavatory use.