BOPDHB Patient Resources Fractured Neck of Femur Patient Handbook- May 2015 | Page 47

If you have visitors, they can protect you from harmful germs by
cleaning their hands:
• Before they touch you.
• Before they give you food.
• At any other time a healthcare worker has advised them to do so
(e.g. assisting with your wound dressings).

General advice

• At any time a healthcare worker has advised you to do so (e.g.
caring for your own catheter).

Moving Safely and preventing falls
while in Hospital
Our “Keeping You Safe from Falls” programme starts when you
enter hospital.
Slips, trips and falls can happen to anyone and sometimes patients
can fall while in hospital.

Why does this happen?
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•
•
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A number of medical conditions can increase your risk of falling
Disorientation due to unfamiliar surroundings
The effect of medications
Problems with walking and balance

Unfortunately some patients will still fall despite all of us following
the advice given on this page. However by working together with
you, your relatives and carers, we aim to minimise the risk of falls.

So what will the hospital do?
We may:
• Move your bed to a more suitable position on the ward to allow
us to observe you more closely
• Assist you if you are having difficulty with walking, or if you need
help with your personal care
• Teach you how to move safely with appropriate walking aids
Remember that if you need help, please ask!
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