Fall prevention at Children's

The safety of our patients is very important to Children's. Falls can occur at any time and anywhere. Certain health conditions or medical treatments may increase the risk of falling and/or the risk of injury with a fall. These conditions may require extra caution.

What can I do to help prevent falls?

Here is a list of general safety tips to help prevent falls in the hospital:

• Keep the area on both sides of the crib or bed free of clutter.
• Keep the bed in the lowest position with wheels locked.
• Keep side rails up and latched whenever your child is in crib/bed, unless you are providing care.
• All children who fall asleep outside of their crib/bed should be returned to their crib/bed. Please do this before you get tired and are ready for sleep.
• Keep the nurse's call light within reach.
• Keep the door open when unattended.
• Encourage non-skid footwear when up.
• If your child can be out of bed, please watch closely.
• If your child's movement is restricted, be sure he/she is helped when up by you or hospital staff.
• Do not leave your child unattended in the playroom.
• Do not allow running or climbing on furniture.
• Use the safety straps of an infant seat, stroller, highchair, wheelchair, etc.
• Stay with your child in situations that could lead to falls, such as
  – Getting out of bed when movement is restricted.

What else do I need to know?

Be sure to let your nurse know if you would rather have the staff help your child. If your child has been identified as a high risk for falling and/or a high risk for injury due to the fall, a Fall Alert system will be used. Your child's Nurse will explain this to you.

See the education sheet, "Fall prevention at home" for information on how to prevent falls at home.

Questions?

This is not specific to your child, but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call your clinic.

Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota
Last Reviewed 8/2015

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