What is the purpose of a fall risk assessment?

A fall risk assessment is crucial in a healthcare setting as it specifically aims to identify patients who may be at an increased risk of falling. By evaluating various factors such as a patient’s medical history, mobility, balance, and cognitive function, healthcare providers can recognize those who need additional precautions.

The primary goal of this assessment is to prevent falls, which can lead to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma. Once at-risk individuals are identified, appropriate preventive measures can be put in place, such as environmental modifications, increased supervision, or mobility assistance devices. This proactive approach helps ensure patient safety and enhances overall care quality. The other options do not address the specific focus of fall risk assessment, which centers around identifying risks and implementing strategies to mitigate those risks.