ABSTRACT

Purpose: The Korean government established a system of comprehensive nursing care service in 2013 and plans to run at least one ward in all hospitals by 2018. This system is expected to support families by reducing their burden in taking care of a family member or having to hire a commercial caregiver. However, this system is concerned with the safety and higher risk of falls in a hospital owing to the absence of a caregiver. Thus, this study investigates a way to eliminate such concerns and to propose an appropriate initiative. Method: This study analyzes the hospital fall prevention guidelines from the United States of America, United Kingdom, and Australia. Results: In the fall prevention guidelines in the US, the UK, and Australia, multidisciplinary teams should be used. Each professional provides intervention related to fall risk factors. In particular, physiotherapists and occupational therapists play an important role in patient safety and reducing the risk factors of the elderly. Conclusion: Before fully implementing a comprehensive nursing care service, the Korean government should consider developing fall prevention guidelines for hospitals, including the specific roles of professional physical and occupational therapists in order to enhance the service quality and patient safety.