Patient perceptions and experiences with falls during hospitalization and after discharge

Aims The aim of this study was to describe hospitalized older adults’ (> 60 years) perceptions about (1) their fall risks while hospitalized; (2) fall prevention interventions received while hospitalized; and (3) fall prevention discharge instructions. Background Little is known about hospitalized older adults’ perceptions regarding fall prevention interventions received during hospitalization and fall prevention discharge instructions. Methods This is a prospective, exploratory study using qualitative methods. Results This paper reports qualitative findings of patients’ perspectives on fall prevention interventions during hospitalization and at discharge. Eight major themes supported by multiple minor themes emerged: overall perceptions of falling; overall perceptions of fall prevention interventions while hospitalized; “telling” fall prevention; “doing” fall prevention; effectiveness of fall prevention strategies; personal fall prevention strategies; fall-related discharge instructions; and most effective fall-related discharge instructions. Conclusions Findings suggest healthcare providers need to more fully engage patients and families in understanding fall prevention interventions and factors contributing to falls during hospitalization and at discharge.