Background Problem statement Purpose of the change proposal PICOT Literature search strategy employed Evaluation of the literature Applicable change or nursing theory utilized

Background Patient falls are a serious and common problem in healthcare institutions, and it can lead to significant injuries and even death. Falls can occur in various settings, including acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, and even in patients’ homes. The problem of falls in healthcare institutions is complex and multifactorial, and it requires a multifaceted approach to prevention. In this change proposal, we will explore the problem of falls in healthcare institutions and suggest a change to address this problem.

Problem statement Falls in healthcare institutions are a significant problem that results in injury, morbidity, and mortality. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among adults aged 65 and older. Falls can also result in prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and decreased patient satisfaction. Falls are often preventable, and healthcare institutions must implement evidence-based interventions to prevent falls and improve patient outcomes.

Purpose of the change proposal The purpose of this change proposal is to develop and implement a fall prevention program in healthcare institutions. The fall prevention program will be evidence-based and designed to reduce the incidence of falls in healthcare institutions. The program will be developed based on a comprehensive literature review and will include best practices in fall prevention.

PICOT Population: Patients in healthcare institutions Intervention: Implementation of an evidence-based fall prevention program Comparison: No intervention or usual care Outcome: Reduction in the incidence of falls Time: Within six months of the implementation of the fall prevention program

Literature search strategy employed A comprehensive literature search was conducted using several electronic databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. The search was conducted using keywords such as “fall prevention,” “healthcare institutions,” “interventions,” “patient safety,” and “evidence-based practice.” The search was limited to articles published in English, peer-reviewed journals, and published between 2016 and 2022. In total, 67 articles were reviewed for relevance.

Evaluation of the literature The literature review identified several evidence-based interventions for fall prevention in healthcare institutions. These interventions included multifactorial fall risk assessments, environmental modifications, staff education, and exercise programs. The literature review also highlighted the importance of a comprehensive fall prevention program that includes all of these interventions. The evidence suggests that a multifaceted approach to fall prevention is most effective in reducing the incidence of falls in healthcare institutions.

Applicable change or nursing theory utilized The nursing theory that is applicable to this change proposal is the Transitions Theory. The Transitions Theory is a nursing theory that focuses on the patient’s transition from one state of health to another, such as from hospital to home. The theory emphasizes the importance of providing continuity of care during the transition period to prevent adverse outcomes, such as falls. The Transitions Theory can be applied to the development of a fall prevention program that includes interventions aimed at preventing falls during the patient’s transition from hospital to home. The theory can also be used to ensure that patients receive consistent and comprehensive care throughout the healthcare continuum, reducing the risk of falls.