Patient falls are one of the most common safety issues every nurse faces in hospitals, long-term care, and home health. Preventing falls is a basic part of daily nursing practice, and it’s a big topic on the NCLEX.
Whether you’re a new registered nurse, an RN nurse with years of experience, or using a nursing bundle to review key topics, this guide will help you understand how to keep your patients safe.
📌 Why Fall Precautions Matter
Falls can cause serious injuries, longer hospital stays, and extra costs. Even a simple fall can break bones or lead to complications. As a nurse, preventing falls is part of your patient care responsibility and can protect your patients and your license.
🗂️ Who Is at Risk for Falls?
Patients with:
- Weak muscles or poor balance
- Medications that cause drowsiness or dizziness
- Confusion, dementia, or poor vision
- Recent surgery or injury
- Urinary urgency or incontinence
Knowing your patient’s risk factors helps you plan the right safety steps.
✅ Fall Precautions Checklist
Here’s a simple checklist every RN nurse and nursing student should use:
1️⃣ Assess Fall Risk
- Use a fall risk tool like Morse Fall Scale or Hendrich II.
- Check at admission, after any status change, or after a fall.
- Look for high-risk signs: history of falls, use of assistive devices, confusion.
2️⃣ Keep the Environment Safe
- Keep bed in lowest position with brakes locked.
- Remove clutter and cords from walkways.
- Make sure floors are dry and well-lit.
- Use non-slip socks or shoes.
3️⃣ Use Bed Alarms and Call Lights
- Place call light and personal items within easy reach.
- Teach patient how to use call light — remind them to ask for help.
- Use bed alarms or chair alarms for high-risk patients.
4️⃣ Apply Proper Safety Equipment
- Use bed rails as ordered — not all patients need 4 side rails (this can be a restraint).
- Use gait belts for ambulation if needed.
- Use assistive devices (walker, cane) properly.
5️⃣ Educate the Patient and Family
- Explain why safety steps are important.
- Encourage family to stay with the patient if possible.
- Remind patient to ask for help to go to the bathroom.
6️⃣ Check on High-Risk Patients Frequently
- Round every hour if needed.
- Offer toileting help regularly.
- Reassess mobility status often.
7️⃣ Document and Report
- Document the fall risk score, interventions, and patient understanding.
- Report any changes in status to your charge nurse or healthcare team.
🎓 Tips for NCLEX and Nursing Practice
✅ Know your protocols: The NCLEX loves questions about patient safety and fall prevention.
✅ Always prioritize safety: If you see clutter, spills, or obstacles — fix it immediately.
✅ Use your nursing bundle: Review fall risk tools, bed safety guidelines, and restraints policies.
🗝️ Key Takeaway
Preventing falls is a daily task for every registered nurse. Knowing who is at risk and how to use safety tools keeps patients secure and builds your confidence as an RN nurse. It also helps you pass the NCLEX and keeps your nursing practice safe and professional.