Joel Stettler, BSN, RN, OCN, Moffitt Cancer Center, discusses common causes for falls in the inpatient malignant hematology population, and what can be done to reduce these incidents.

During his study, Stettler realized that there was a high incidence of falls while patients were going to the restroom, which was a frequent task as many of these patients are constantly getting fluids or drugs that give them the urge to go to the bathroom. Stettler and his team implemented bed or chair alarms, so that nurses could be notified when the patient tries to get up.

After implementing these policies, there was a 60% decrease in falls. Stettler emphasized that preventing falls in patients with hematologic malignancies is vital, as they can case cerebral bleeding or even death.

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Joel Stettler on How Polypharmacy Can Increase Patient Falls

Joel Stettler, BSN, RN, OCN, Moffitt Cancer Center, discusses procedures implemented at his institution for patients who are at risk for falls.

Upon admission, the patient is assessed for his or her fall risk and may end up in the moderate or high risk fall precaution category. For patients who are at high-risk, precautions such as helmets, floor mats, and bed alarms are put in place to ensure safety.

Joel Stettler, BSN, RN, OCN, Moffitt Cancer Center, discusses procedures implemented at his institution for patients who are at risk for falls. 

Joel Stettler, BSN, RN, OCN

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Joel Stettler on How Polypharmacy Can Increase Patient Falls

Joel Stettler on Procedures for Fall-Risk Patients