eP514 General Surgical Inpatient Falls: An Audit of Current Practices

Abstract Aims As the surgical population is becoming older and frailer, the risk of inpatient falls is increasing. This audit aimed to assess how well we were complying with preventing and managing falls on the general surgical patients over 64 years per Royal College of Physician national guidance. Method We conducted an audit from 25/11/23 - 25/12/23 of all inpatient falls. Demographic and admission data were captured, along with falls risk assessments when completed. Further data included circumstances of the fall, the extent of harm, use of falls proforma and further medical review. Data was collected and analysed from physical and electronic notes, using Microsoft Excel. Results 14 patients had an inpatient fall of whom two had multiple falls. Median age was 80 (range 59-91) with male:female ratio 10:4 All patients were assessed for risk of falls within 24 hours of admission. None of the falls were unwitnessed. All falls were reviewed, however in only 10 cases (71%) was local protocol fully followed. 57% (8/14) were further investigated (radiology/bloods). One patient came to moderate harm. One patient who was admitted with a fall and further fell, died. Conclusions All patients were adequately assessed for risk of falls, but these still occurred, resulting in use of additional resources. Use of the standard proforma for assessing these patients is not routinely used. Raising awareness of falls risk and management is desirable.