Understanding Falls for Canada

Outline:
Section 1: Introduction A. About This Course B. Learning Objectives Section 2: What Causes Falls? A. Five Most Common Reasons B. Changes in Gait C. Sensory Changes D. Dizziness E. Environmental Factors F. Cognitive Impairment G. Review H. Summary Section 3: Fall Risk Assessment A. Identifying Who is at Risk B. Risk Factors C. Review D. Summary Section 4: Implementing a Successful Fall Prevention Program A. Fall Prevention Program B. Orientation C. Surroundings D. Take Your Time E. Safety Devices F. Monitor G. Review H. Summary Section 5: Post-Fall Assessment A. When a Fall Occurs B. Why and How? C. When and Where? D. Personal Contributing Factors E. Fall History F. Interventions G. Review H. Summary Section 6: Conclusion A. Summary B. Course Contributors C. References D. Congratulations

Karen C. Schnaufer, BSN, RN, Content Writer, Relias Learning, has held positions as staff nurse, charge nurse, research nurse clinician, and clinical instructor with over 25 years of clinical practice in a broad range of specialties: med/surg, pediatrics, long term care, mental health, research, and IDD. Prior to becoming a Registered Nurse, Ms. Schnaufer successfully challenged the Practical Nursing Boards in NY. After working with the Breast Oncology Research group at Duke, Ms. Schnaufer switched her focus to the area of IDD and worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health issues, who live in group homes. Among her various responsibilities in this area was to train direct support staff and clinicians in medical issues/medication administration, participate in state surveys, providing and implementing plans of correction, as well as, serving on various committees, such as Human Rights, to help improve the lives of the individuals supported. To this day, she continues to volunteer in this realm. A veteran of the U.S.A.F., Ms. Schnaufer is committed to creating relevant and intelligent continuing education courses for healthcare professionals throughout the continuum of care. Disclosure: Karen C. Schnaufer, BSN, RN has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.

Peggy is a Health Services professional with over 38 years of progressive Nursing, Education, and Health Management experience including Critical Care Emergency Nursing, Case Management, and Home Care Senior Management. As Director of Product Management, Ontario Association of Community Care Access Centre’s, she was responsible for overseeing all aspects of software product delivery including implementation and constant improvement of a provincial home care solution and assessment solution for the Province of Ontario. Peggy is highly skilled in all aspects of communication and education, including facilitation, presentations, Disclosure: Peggy Hewson, BScN, MaED has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.