The ED represents a defined geographical area which allows for the easy identification of fallers. The evidence to date suggests that these people benefit from a multi-disciplinary assessment in a Falls Clinic type setting (1, 2). However the number of fallers presenting to the ED would generate an enormous case load for most Falls Clinics irrespective of where they are run. The development of a validated screening tool will allow for a more streamlined approach to managing falls in this high risk population and allow for a more cost-effective approach to intervention and prevention.
To develop and validate a screening tool for use in the Emergency Department (ED) to identify different levels of falls risk and thus onward referral for different levels of intervention.
Two sub-groups:
Cohort study with a six-month follow-up period.
For sub-group a), data collection will include formal ASET assessment and some additional measures of balance, mobility and vision. Falls will recorded with monthly falls calendars for a period of six months following recruitment and subsequent ED and hospital admissions will also be tracked for 6 months. For sub-group b), information collected will include the ASET assessment and subsequent ED and hospital admissions for 6 months.
The development of a validated screening tool will allow for a more streamlined approach to managing falls in this high risk population. It will also provide a risk profile for ED attendees and will thus enable appropriate interventions to be instigated directly from the ED, by ASET teams when available.
