What is the most appropriate initial action to minimize falls in a client identified as high fall risk?

• A. Perform hourly bedside rounds
• B. Use chair and bed alarms
• C. Educate client about fall prevention
• D. Place a 'fall risk' sign on door

Answer: (A)

Proactive, regular contact with the patient is the best way to prevent falls in someone at high risk. Performing hourly bedside rounds allows you to anticipate needs before they become urgent. During rounds you can help the patient to the bathroom or chair, check that the call bell is within reach, ensure the bed is in a safe height and locked wheels, remove trip hazards, and confirm the patient has non-slip footwear or any other safety aids. Addressing these factors proactively reduces the likelihood of attempting to get up unassisted, wandering, or calling for help too late.

Alarms, while helpful as a reminder, don’t prevent a fall on their own and can lead to alarm fatigue. Education is important but typically follows immediate safety steps. A visible fall-risk sign doesn’t prevent the event either; it informs others but doesn’t change the patient’s daily safety needs. The routine of hourly rounds directly targets prevention by meeting needs and stabilizing the environment in real time.