Falls in the Rehabilitation Setting: Incidence and Characteristics

Authors:
  • LMLorraine C. Mion
    Lorraine C. Mion
  • SGSara Gregor
    Sara Gregor
  • MBMargaret Buettner
    Margaret Buettner
  • DCDiane Chwirchak
    Diane Chwirchak
  • OLOlga Lee
    Olga Lee
  • WPWilfredo Paras
    Wilfredo Paras
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Abstract
Proprioception, use of physical restraints, and medications. A detailed examination of the fall events was also conducted. Of the 143 patients studied, 46 (32%) fell at least once, making a total of 84 falls. Impaired ability to follow directions, impaired judgment, impaired proprioception, presence of physical restraints, use of major tranquilizers, use of sedatives, and presence of psychiatric diagnosis were all individually associated with patients who fell. Males fell more than females. Logistic regression identified altered proprioception as the only major predictor of falling. Of those who fell, only 26% called for assistance prior to the fall. Sixty-eight percent of the falls were from wheelchairs. Importantly, no patients had serious injury or morbidity from the falls. Division of Restorative and Geriatric Medicine, H-540, Cleveland Metropolitan General/Highland View Hospital, 3395 Scranton Road, Cleveland, OH 44109. © 1989 President and Fellows of Harvard College...

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