Falls Prevention Management of Adult Inpatients Policy

Falls are a significant global public health concern, affecting people of all ages. People fall in their homes, within care homes, in the community and sometimes whilst in hospital. For adults in hospital settings, the risks and consequences of falls can be particularly serious, impacting both physical health and psychological wellbeing. Even without physical injury, a fall may reduce confidence, limit daily activities and hinder recovery in hospital settings.

This policy outlines the approach to falls prevention, management, and learning from falls across all inpatient hospital settings. It applies to all our health and social care workforce working in hospital settings who are involved in the direct care, treatment and provision of services to adult inpatients.

This policy emphasises the importance of reporting and reviewing all falls in partnership with patients, families, carers and relevant members of the NHS Lothian workforce. Through collaborative working and learning from falls incidents, services can continue to improve and reduce the risk of future harm.

Aligned with the Lothian Falls Prevention and Management Framework 2025-2028, this updated policy reflects a whole-system commitment to improving outcomes for people at risk of falling, supported by integrated, multidisciplinary working and shared responsibility.