A Protocol to Reduce Falls Associated with Setting Bed Alarms: A quality Improvement Project

Inappropriate and noncompliance with setting bed alarms can lead to an increased risk of falls in a large urban teaching hospital. In return, this can lead to injury and an increased cost for patients if they must have a longer stay in the hospital due to potential injuries. The main problem is healthcare employees may not be compliant in ensuring bed alarms are set and in the appropriate zone which can stem from forgetfulness or that doing so is a nuisance. Another factor that plays a role in noncompliance is alarm fatigue. The constant beeping of bed alarms can be an annoyance for the patient as well as the health care provider taking care of that patient which can lead to not re-setting the bed alarm or patient refusal, but although it can be an annoyance it is important to set the bed alarm for patient safety.https://scholarworks.moreheadstate.edu/celebration_posters_2024/1023/thumbnail.jp