Development and Implementation of a Pharmacy Fall Prevention Program

Abstract

Purpose Describe the development, implementation, and outcomes of a pharmacy fall prevention program (PFPP) that incorporates medication profile review and a medication fall risk score to identify high-risk patients. Summary Falls are a common cause of morbidity and mortality among elderly patients in the United States. Injury-related falls may contribute to frequent visits to emergency departments (EDs) and hospitals, as well as functional and emotional decline. Falls account for more than 10% of ED visits and more than 5% of hospital visits. Numerous reports describe common risk factors associated with falls of hospitalized patients and which safety measures should be taken to prevent or eliminate falls. The fall prevention program has a positive financial impact by reducing injury falls in hospitalized patients. During the first 2 years of implementation, the injury fall rate decreased from 2.06 to 1.07 per 1,000 patient-days (48%). The total falls rate decreased from 5.13 to 3.59 per 1,000 patient-days (30%). This program showed a savings of $217,000 per year in prevented falls. Conclusion Incorporating medications and their related adverse effects into a fall prevention program is an integral part of a multidisciplinary approach to reduce total falls and related injuries. The decrease in falls has improved patient safety and quality of care.