What to Do If a Client Has Fallen on the Floor

Know and follow your facility or agency policy about responding to falls.
Below are recommended steps to take.

Immediately ask the client what happened and how they feel. Remember that most people are embarrassed and may want to get up or tell you everything is fine even if they are hurt. Observe the person carefully.
If the client says they feel unhurt and comfortable getting up, observe carefully as they do so.
a. Depending on where you work, you may be expected to assist the client back to their pre-fall position. Follow your employer’s policies and procedures. If the client has trouble getting up, you can help steady them but do not lift them up.
b. If the client is injured, your role is to get the client medical help. If you are caring for a client in a private home, you should call 911. Caregivers in adult family homes, enhanced services, or assisted living facilities should know and follow their employer’s emergency policies and procedures.
c. Make the client as comfortable as possible and keep them warm by covering them with a blanket until the EMTs or other medical help arrives.
d. Do not give the client anything to drink or move them.
Document and report the fall to the appropriate person where you work.

What to Do After a Fall

After a fall, monitor the client for injuries or changes in condition and respond to them promptly. Look at the client’s body for any injuries (bruises, cuts, abrasions, etc). Check for skin temperature and listen for changes in breathing. Changes in the client’s condition can help identify the cause of the fall.

Report the fall to your supervisor. The fall will also probably be reported to the client’s doctor and interested family members. You will need to help your supervisor investigate the cause of the fall and
help in implementing a plan to prevent another fall. Remember that experiencing a fall can cause strong emotional reactions such as fear and depression. These can happen immediately, hours, or days after the fall. Talk with the client and listen to how they feel. Document and report any changes you observe.