Prevent Falls at the Hospital and at Home

How to prevent falls in the hospital

Your child’s fall risk can increase in the hospital because of illness, procedures, medicines, and changes in environment and routine. Medical devices and equipment can interfere with movement or cause your child to trip. Your child may need to wear a special hospital bracelet if they have an increased risk of falls.

Ways to help prevent falls in the hospital include:

• Remind your child to move slowly when getting up from a bed or chair.
• Watch out for medical equipment like IVs and feeding tubes that can get in the way of movement.
• Keep the side rails of the hospital bed up, and keep the bed in the lowest position.
• Have a family or staff member present any time your child is in a hospital bed.
• Help your child become familiar with the hospital or new surroundings.
• Do not allow children to play, stand, or ride on rolling stools, chairs, or IV poles.
• Help your child with tasks such as getting on and off exam tables or using the bathroom.
• Do not let your child get up and walk too soon after sedation or anesthesia. Use a wheelchair or wagon if your child is unsteady.

A wagon or wheelchair can help your child get around safely if they have trouble walking on their own or get tired easily.