The Negative Effects Of The Morse Fall Scale

According to Martin (2011), “a fall is defined as an unexpected event in which the participants come to rest on the ground, floor, or lower level” (p. 33). Falls are among the most frequent critical health problems for older adults over 65 years of age and often result in consequential injuries (Jung, Shin, & Kim, 2014, p. 525). As a result, this can potentially have a negative effect on the quality of life of the elderly patients. Frequent falling can make older adults feel depressed, isolated, vulnerable, and dependent. It is crucial to embrace the uniqueness of each patient as a holistic being to promote a sense of autonomy, dignity, and respect. Nurses are required to take precautionary measures to prevent the risks of falling

The Morse Fall Scale is a standardized approach in which nursing staff completes an fall risk assessment and intervention flow sheet used as soon as a resident is admitted, any changes in their physical condition, cognitive function, and after a fall (Hill & Fauerbach, 2014, pg. 26). The Morse Fall Scale is an effective strategy in preventing the incidence of falls because this allows nurses to figure out which patients are at risk and to intervene as soon as possible. Placing frequently used objects within reach, using the top bedrails, providing orientation to the room, adequate lighting, and demonstrating how to use the call bell for assistance (Hill & Fauerbach, 2014, p. 26) are interventions to reduce the incidence of falls. These interventions are important because it is cost effective, time efficient, and the risks of falling will be greatly reduced. When assessing the health of the older adults, it is important to also assess the overall environment of their room. Healey (2010) advise nurses to assess possible trip hazards including steps, clutter, medical device, oxygen tubing, and cables (p.18) for further risk management practice to prevent falls. It is crucial to make sure that the room is neatly maintained to enhance their safety. Also, prior to leaving the patients room, ensuring that the height of the bed is lowered to the standardized height will further

The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (2011) suggests effectiveness of specific forms of exercise to maximize mobility and physical activity in the older adults and prevent the number of falls. In particular, when is the best time to institute exercise programs and when are they most effective? (p. 35). Furthermore, the writer suggests whether incorporating hand and feet coordination exercises will further improve the older adults strength and stability. The writer also advises future research on identifying whether reading a book will further improve their sensorimotor skills in addition to their active lifestyle. Hill and Fauerbach (2014) states, “as older adults lose independence, they hold on to what they can control. It is important to strike a balance between reminding them of their limitations and encouraging their independence” (p. 28). Due to this, the writer recommends an app solely dedicated to meet the needs of the patient for those living on their own. The app provides a virtual nurse that will assist the patient throughout the day. Through this app, their diet, physical activity, emotional, and spiritual needs are met and assessed daily. This app will constantly monitor if the older adults are at risk of falling. A study of the effectiveness of this app would one day be