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Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.

4 min

What are the risk factors for falls in the acute hospital?

Falls are the most frequently reported safety incident in hospitals, with approximately 30–50% resulting in some physical injury. For this reason, it is critical for healthcare staff and patients to understand exactly **what are the risk factors for falls in the acute hospital** and how to address them proactively. Falls can be caused by a complex interplay of intrinsic (patient-related) and extrinsic (environmental) factors that become amplified in the unfamiliar hospital setting.

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3 min

What risks do side rails present? A Comprehensive Guide

According to reports from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, hundreds of incidents involving side rails have resulted in serious injury or death, primarily from entrapment. Understanding **what risks do side rails present** is crucial for ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals in healthcare and home settings.

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2 min

Which precaution is used for all residents during all interactions?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), standard precautions are minimum infection prevention practices that apply to all patient care, regardless of a resident's suspected or confirmed infection status. Standard precautions are the primary measure used for all residents during all interactions.

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4 min

How many people are required to use a mechanical lift?

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health authorities, most mechanical patient lifts require two or more caregivers for safe operation. The precise number of people required to use a mechanical lift depends on the specific type of lift, the patient's condition, and the manufacturer's instructions. Best practices universally recommend a minimum of two trained staff for a full lift transfer to minimize the risk of injury to both the patient and the caregivers.

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4 min

Where do most falls occur in nursing homes? A comprehensive guide

According to data from Massachusetts between 2018 and 2022, a staggering 81% of falls with injury occurred in a resident's own room. Understanding the specific locations where most falls occur in nursing homes is the first step toward effective prevention and enhancing resident safety. While resident rooms are the most common site, bathrooms and other common areas also present significant risks.

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