CHAPTYER ONE

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background Information of The Research Problem

            Patient falls are a significant issue in healthcare facilities, leading to injuries, increased healthcare costs, and longer hospital stays. The step-down unit is a high-risk area for patient falls due to the complex care needs of patients who require close monitoring and frequent interventions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC (2021), falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults and are responsible for millions of emergency department visits every year. In healthcare facilities, falls are a common occurrence, with an estimated 700,000 to 1 million falls occurring each year. These falls can result in serious injuries, including hip fractures and head trauma, leading to extended hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and even death (Lohman et al., 2018). Older adults are at the highest risk of falling, with approximately one in four adults over the age of 65 falling each year. On the same case, according to Dykes et al. (2017) research, hospital fall cause 250,000 injuries and 11,000 deaths annually. The CDC recommends several interventions to prevent patient falls in healthcare facilities. These interventions include implementing fall prevention programs, conducting fall risk assessments, and ensuring patients receive appropriate care and supervision (Lohman et al., 2018). Also, conducting hourly rounding to assess patient needs and address any potential fall risks. By implementing evidence-based interventions and promoting patient education and awareness, healthcare providers can help prevent falls and improve the quality of care for their patients.

1.2 Problem and Significance

The problem of patient falls in the step-down unit is a significant issue that can have serious consequences for patients and healthcare providers. Falls can result in injuries, prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and even death (Roberts et al., 2020). Patient falls can impact the quality of care provided by healthcare providers, leading to increased liability and potential legal issues (Dykes et al., 2017). The step-down unit is a high-risk area for patient falls due to the complex care needs of patients who require close monitoring and frequent interventions. These patients may be recovering from surgery or have underlying medical conditions that affect their balance and mobility (Chan eta l., 2016). As a result, healthcare providers in the step-down unit must be vigilant in identifying and addressing fall risks to prevent patient harm.

The significance of this problem is underscored by the statistics provided by the CDC. The CDC notes that falls are responsible for millions of emergency department visits every year (DC, 2021). By implementing evidence-based interventions and promoting patient education and awareness (Chan eta l., 2016). Healthcare providers can reduce the incidence of falls and improve the quality of care provided to their patients.

1.3 Study Purpose

The purpose of a study on interventions for patient falls in the step-down unit would be to evaluate the effectiveness of various fall prevention strategies. This investigation led to identify best practices for reducing the incidence of falls in this high-risk area of the healthcare facility (Chan eta l., 2016). The study would aim to answer questions that are critically involving the practice in diverse health care systems concerning hospital fall.

1.3.1 Research Questions

1. What fall prevention strategies are currently being implemented in the step-down unit, and how effective are they at reducing patient falls?
2. Are there any gaps in the current fall prevention practices in the step-down unit, and how can these gaps be addressed?
3. What are the perspectives of healthcare providers and patients regarding fall prevention strategies in the step-down unit, and how can their insights inform future interventions?

The study would also seek to identify any barriers to the implementation of effective fall prevention strategies in the step-down unit. These challenges may include lack of resources or staff training, and provide recommendations for addressing these barriers (Sun et al., 2020). The purpose of the study would be to provide evidence-based recommendations for fall prevention interventions in the step-down unit (Appeadu & Bordoni, 2022). This aspect can be implemented by healthcare providers to reduce the i