DEBBIE CROSSLAND n DISTRICT NURSE/FALLS CO- ORDINATOR n NORTH BRADFORD PRIMARY CARE TRUST

Aims of the programme n To reduce the number of falls experienced by people aged 65 years and over. n To reduce serious injury as a result of a fall. n To improve or maintain the quality of life in the over 65 years

My role n Identify and implement an evidence based falls programme. n Identify a fallers pathway. n Raise awareness within the 12 practices of the PCT of the falls prevention work. n Identify a nurse within the practice, train and develop their education in order to undertake the falls prevention work. n Raise awareness with other professionals. n Provide a co-ordinated seamless approach.

A falls prevention programme should be: n Simple and easy to follow. n Based on best practice and research. n Be multi-factorial and have a multidisciplinary approach. n Look at the internal and external risk factors that contribute to a fall.

Research papers/ best practice n Queen Mary and Westfield college (2000) n Gillespie et al (1999) Cochrane library n DTI (1999) n Simpson and Harrington (1998) n Oliver et al (1997) n Effective Health care (1996) n Williams and Nolan (1993) n Plus lots of bed time reading!

How to catch a faller. n GP’s/receptionists (PHCT) n A&E slips n Discharge letters n Home care district wide pilot with social services n Handyman scheme n Local fire station n City wide pilot with WYMAS and Fast Response Team

Reducing serious injury n Calcium and vitamin D supplements. n Osteoporosis drugs n Hip protectors n Care line