Effectiveness of an integrated three-mode bed exit alarm system in reducing inpatient falls within an acute care setting

Abstract

Aim: To examine the effectiveness of an integrated three-mode bed exit alarm system in reducing inpatient falls within an acute care hospital setting in Singapore.

Method: A retrospective before-and-after study design was adopted.

Results: Our results revealed that the use of bed exit alarms are associated with a reduction in falls incidence.

Conclusion: Bed exit alarm systems are associated with reduced fall incidence. Nonetheless, for an institution to benefit from the technology, there will be a need to take into account the effects of "alarm fatigue", ability of nurses to respond in time to alarms, and selection of right alarm mode/limits based on the patient's profile.

Keywords: acute care; bed exit alarm; fall prevention; inpatient care.