Patient education: Preventing falls – ED discharge instructions (The Basics)

What are discharge instructions? — 

Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").

What should I know? — 

You came to the ED, and the doctors are concerned about your risk for falling. You might be at a higher risk based on your age or your health. Some medicines increase your risk of falling, as does adding new medicines or being in an unfamiliar area.

How do I care for myself at home? — 

Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

You should also:

●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to. Ask your doctor if you need to take vitamin D to help keep your bones strong.

●Make your home safer. Get rid of things that might make you trip or slip. Examples include loose rugs, electrical cords, or clutter. Keep your home well lit. Avoid storing things in high places so you don't have to reach or climb. Add grab bars, a shower seat, and handrails.

●Wear non-slip socks or sturdy shoes that fit well. Choose shoes with a low heel and non-slippery soles. Walking in loose shoes, socks, or with bare feet can raise your chance for falling.

●Stay active. Walk, garden, swim, or do something active regularly. These activities might prevent you from getting hurt if you do fall. They also help with your strength and balance.

●Use a cane, walker, or other safety device. Make sure it is the right size for you and you know how to use it safely. Wear your eyeglasses if you have them.

●Get up slowly after you sit or lie down. Try to change positions slowly.

When should I get emergency help?

●Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if you:

•Are hurt or cannot get up on your own

•Cannot walk on your own

•Fall and hit your head and are on blood thinners

•Have severe neck pain after a fall

•Cannot stop any bleeding after 5 minutes of direct pressure

•Lose consciousness after a fall

•Have clear fluid coming from your ears, nose, or mouth

●Return to the ED if you have:

•Severe pain

•A cut that might need stitches

•Headaches, dizziness, confusion, or ringing in your ears after a fall

When should I call the doctor? — 

Call for advice if you:

●Feel weak or have trouble standing up

●Are worried you might fall again

●Are dizzy or feel unsteady when you walk

●Have new or worsening symptoms

More on this topic

Patient education: Preventing falls in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Preventing falls in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Managing higher risk of falls from your medicines (The Basics)