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Department
Nursing
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Abstract
Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults. It is estimated that 1 in 4 older adults admit to falling each year. Fall related deaths are continuing to rise in the United States. Fall screening and education is a simple measure that can be completed in primary care to enhance awareness of and prevent falls. This quality improvement project took place in a rural primary care that was not completing fall screening. Patient care staff was sent weekly emails and education regarding fall prevention and encouraged to complete STEADI fall screenings. The first objective of this project was that 60% of older adults at annual wellness visits (AWV) would complete STEADI fall screening with the patient care staff. The second objective was that out of those found at risk for falls, 75% would be provided fall prevention education. The results of the study exceeded the objectives set. From September 2, 2024, to October 31, 2024, 39 AWV occurred. The results showed 82% fall screening completion (32/39 screenings completed). 100% of patients found at risk for falling were provided education on fall prevention. As fall screenings were not previously completed it can be inferred that there were far more screenings completed than prior. The results of the project imply that fall screening and education is a beneficial measure to continue implementing within the primary care setting. It allows fall risk to be recognized and acted on, preventing negative effects from occurring.
Keywords
Falls, fall prevention, fall screening, fall education, STEADI, older adults
Advisor
Dr. Jenny Manry
Date of Award
Spring 2025
Document Type
DNP Project
Recommended Citation
Hanzlick, Madison, "Enhancing Fall Risk Screening and Education in Rural Primary Care" (2025). Master's Theses or Doctor of Nursing Practice. 3287.
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/theses/3287
Rights
© The Author
