Question

One of the adverse events that Medicare will no longer reimburse the hospital for is an in-hospital fall. Fall prevention is

a major part of nursing and risk management. In order to reduce the risk of falling, the nurse must:
A) ensure that the patient wears his prescription glasses when up.
B) post signs to alert staff to the patient at high risk for falls.
C) always assist every patient with ambulation.
D) assess the patient's fatigue level.
E) monitor gait and balance.

Answer 1

Regular assessment of gait helps identify and address factors contributing to instability, aligning with Medicare's reimbursement policies to prevent in-hospital falls.The correct answer is E) monitor gait and balance.

Step-by-step explanation:

Effective fall prevention in healthcare involves comprehensive assessments, and monitoring gait and balance (option E) is a critical component. Regularly assessing a patient's gait and balance helps the nurse identify any abnormalities or changes that may increase the risk of falls. This proactive approach allows for targeted interventions to address specific factors contributing to instability, reducing the likelihood of in-hospital falls.

Monitoring gait and balance involves observing the patient's walking patterns, assessing posture, and identifying any signs of unsteadiness. This approach goes beyond merely assisting with ambulation (option C) and addresses the specific factors that contribute to falls. By focusing on gait and balance, nurses can tailor interventions to the individual patient's needs, promoting a more targeted and effective fall prevention strategy.

In the context of Medicare reimbursement policies, preventing in-hospital falls is not only crucial for patient safety but also has financial implications for healthcare institutions. The emphasis on monitoring gait and balance aligns with evidence-based practice in nursing, highlighting the importance of personalized care to enhance patient outcomes and minimize adverse events.