Systematic Review of Patients' Perceptions of the Contributing Factors That Led to Falling in Acute Care Hospitals During Their Hospitalisation.

Abstract

Aim: To examine what patients perceive to be the contributing factors that led to their fall in acute care hospitals during their episode of care in Australia.

Design: A systematic review was conducted on inpatient experiences related to their fall during their episode of care in Australian acute care hospitals.

Methods: Database and manual searches were undertaken from December 2022 to February 2023, with final analyses completed in August 2023. Three studies with a total of 37 participants were included in the analysis. Various aspects of falls in patients were examined, including factors contributing to falls; the impact of falls on patients' confidence; education about falls prevention measures through brochures and implemented strategies; and patient adherence to the falls prevention plan.

Results: Three key perceptions were identified, relating to the cause of falls, person-centred care and falls prevention. Results revealed that many inpatients were unaware of their risks of falling or the steps taken by nursing staff to prevent falls. Furthermore, the quality of nurse-patient relationships affected patients' experience of falls.

Conclusion: To promote cooperation and foster patient understanding of risk, it is crucial to involve patients in their falls prevention plan on a daily basis during their episode of care.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care: Further research is required on patients' perceptions of their falls during an episode of care within an acute care setting in Australia. The increasing risk of falls, particularly among the ageing population, requires better processes and partnering with consumers using a multidisciplinary approach to person-centred falls prevention strategies.

Impact: Falls among patients in healthcare facilities are a major concern. Understanding patient perceptions of the factors contributing to their falls will assist nurses understanding and lead to improvement in communication and falls prevention during their hospital stay.

Reporting method: This work adhered to the PRISMA guidelines.

Patient or public contribution: No patient or public contribution.