How can CNAs actively help prevent falls among patients?

Ensuring that the environment is safely clutter-free is an essential strategy for preventing falls among patients. A clutter-free environment reduces potential hazards that can lead to slips, trips, and falls. This involves removing items such as loose cables, furniture that obstructs pathways, or any other objects that may create an unsafe walking area. By maintaining a clean and organized space, CNAs can significantly contribute to the safety and well-being of patients, enabling them to move more freely and safely.

In contrast, encouraging patients to walk without assistance may increase their risk of falling, particularly for those who are unsteady or have mobility issues. Assessing patients only once a week for risks is inadequate since regular evaluations help address any changes in a patient's condition that could affect their stability. Limiting patient mobility to their rooms may also lead to increased reliance on caregivers and can negatively impact the patients’ physical strength and confidence, making them more susceptible to falls when they do attempt to move around.