Falls Awareness week with Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

This September brings Falls Awareness Week 2022. A week which aims to encourage the sharing of knowledge about falls, risks, patients and how we can help. This year, we are working with the Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust to understand tand bring awareness to the effects of bed rest on patients.

The Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust are focusing on the potential side effects and causes of prolonged periods of being in bed. They are placing an emphasis on the effects of deconditioning on the wards. And how this affects the patients, nurses, carers and other medical professionals.

We explain the impacts of bed rest and deconditioning on patients, and how this influences their likelihood to fall. Continue reading for more information!

The effects of bed rest on the elderly

Falls can happen to any of us. But the elderly population are at a notably higher risk of falls at home, and inpatient falls. Prolonged bed rest can have a large impact on the risk of falls.

According to The Effects of Bed Rest (2009), bed rest can cause reduced muscle strength, thinning bones, fragile skin, increased pressure on the heart. As well as causing an increased risk of fainting and dizziness, and potentially delirium. The increased risk of fainting is very dangerous for those weakened by bed rest.

Understanding the effects of bed rest can help to accurately observe any falls risks to patients, and help them stay as mobile as possible while feeling safe.

Deconditioning

Deconditioning is a condition which is brought on be prolonged bed rest or a continuous lack of activity. Spending lots of time sitting or lying down, can cause muscle weakness, stiff joints, skin problems, as well as more serious conditions in the lungs and legs.

These issues can make it much more likely that a patient falls, going to the bathroom, or simply standing can become very difficult. Hull Royal want to find ways to support those with mobility issues to ensure they do not experience the effects of deconditioning. And can gain some confidence and independence when moving around.

Falls Awareness

We are working with Hull Royal this September to gain more understanding of the how bed rest impacts the elderly and their risk of falls. We support their work to bring awareness to deconditioning and the risks of prolonged bed rest. Our fall prevention range is something we are proud to supply to do our part in providing safety for at risk patients.

Follow our social channels here for more Falls Awareness content.

Sources

https://www.nursingtimes.net/clinical-archive/systems-of-life/effects-of-bedrest/
https://www.bgs.org.uk/policy-and-media/%E2%80%98sit-up-get-dressed-and-keep-moving%E2%80%99#:~:text=University%20Hospital%20of%20North%20Midlands,educate%20patients%20and%20carers%20about

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