Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion
Spring 5-1-2026
Faculty Advisor
Deborah McCrea
Abstract
Purpose
The CDC validated Stay Independent Check Your Risk for Fall (SICRFQ) tool was integrated on a geriatric trauma unit. This initiative sought to improve nurse-driven, individualized fall prevention through the identification of patient-specific fall risk factors among older adults.
Background
Inpatient falls are burdensome on patients and hospitals. The SICRFQ tool can aid in screening for patient specific risk factors. Screening and nurse-led fall prevention strategies can reduce falls in the acute care setting.
Methodology
The PDSA cycle was utilized to guide project implementation. The SICRFQ was assessed at admission and screened every shift by nursing staff. Pre and post implementation nursing surveys were completed by staff nurses to assess fall prevention engagement. Fall rates were documented pre and post implementation. Descriptive statistics was used to assess all data.
Results
During implementation, nurse engagement in fall prevention increased by 19.6% (n=15). Fall rates were sustained at zero during project implementation. Forty-five geriatric patients completed the SICRFQ assessment.
Implications
There was an overall increase in fall prevention engagement by the nursing staff during project implementation. Fall rates were reduced compared to the previous year. Unit strategic focuses potentially influenced fall awareness and prevention during implementation. With minor updates and EMR integration, the SICRFQ can enhance nurse driven fall prevention in acute-care settings.
Keywords
In-patient falls, geriatric patients, fall prevention, fall screening
Recommended Citation
Savanah Weaver, "Improving Nursing Engagement in Fall Prevention Strategies Using The Stay Independent Check Your Risk for Falling Questionnaire Instrument on a Geriatric Trauma Unit" (2026). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 234.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/234