A frequent type of call I receive in the Customer Care Center at VNSNY relates to patients who have fallen in their homes. I am reminded of the seriousness of such a call as soon as I open my telehealth triage guidelines as listed below:

At least one-third of patients over the age of 65 years and one-half of those over 85 years fall each year. Falls in the geriatric population are associated with significant potential morbidity and occasional mortality. Non-intentional injury is the seventh* leading cause of death in people over 65 years in the U.S. (from McKesson Care Enhancement Call Center Guideline for Falls)

Family members may not realize there can still be an injury even if the skin is not broken or bruised. These injuries can cause irreversible damage if not treated, which is why in most cases nurses may urge you to seek emergency care or contact the physician based on your loved one’s clinical history. Falls must be taken seriously however minimal the injury may appear on the surface.

For example, patients who hit their head while also taking blood thinners, such as Coumadin, are at increased risk for bleeding. Or, a diabetic client who reports he has fallen due to new numbness or tingling may indicate nerve damage, or neuropathy. In this case, the cause of the fall can also indicate a new underlying problem that must be evaluated by a physician.

It may just be an isolated incident or it could signify a greater problem, but nurses can assist you to determine the appropriate response. A call about a fall is complex.

Of course, the best scenario is to not have falls happen at all! Fewer falls equal fewer injuries which equal fewer complications in the future. Many actions can be taken by patients and caregivers to decrease the risk for falls in the home. The time it takes to do some of these measures as presented in the following VNSNY video can possibly save you and your loved one a trip to the emergency room and unnecessary injury.

Video: How To Prevent Trips and Falls In The Home

Remember to call about a fall!

*updated to reflect current statistics