What does the term "fall risk assessment" involve?

The term "fall risk assessment" specifically refers to the process of evaluating a patient's likelihood of falling. This involves identifying risk factors that may contribute to falls, such as balance issues, previous fall history, mobility limitations, medication effects, and environmental hazards. Accurate fall risk assessments are crucial in a clinical setting to implement appropriate interventions that can help prevent falls, thereby enhancing patient safety.

This assessment is typically part of a larger patient evaluation and is especially important for populations that are at higher risk, such as the elderly or those with certain medical conditions. By focusing on the specific factors that contribute to falls, healthcare providers can develop targeted care plans that include safety measures and potential modifications to the patient’s environment or treatment regimen, promoting overall patient well-being.