Feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of an electronic sensor bed/chair alarm in reducing falls in patients with cognitive impairment in a subacute ward

J Nurs Care Qual. 2014 Jul-Sep;29(3):253-62. doi: 10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000054.

Abstract

Falls from bed are common in subacute hospital settings, particularly for patients with cognitive impairment. This repeated measures, single cohort study in 1 subacute ward evaluated effectiveness of an electronic sensor alarm in reducing falls in patients (n = 34) with cognitive impairment. Nursing staff feedback (focus group, survey) was used to determine electronic sensor alarm feasibility. The electronic alarm system was found to be a feasible, effective, and acceptable fall prevention strategy for patients with cognitive impairment.

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / prevention & control*
  • Beds*
  • Cognition Disorders*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Electronics, Medical / instrumentation*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Interior Design and Furnishings*
  • Male
  • Nursing Staff