Evaluating the relationship between inattention and impulsivity-related falls in hospitalized older adults.
Impulsivity in older adults is poorly understood and there is limited literature on the relationship between impulsivity and falls. This retrospective study evaluated the relationship between of inattention and impulsivity related falls (IRF) in hospitalized older adults. The sample (N = 192) included patients 65 years and older with a documented in-patient fall in 2007. "Impaired judgment" was identified as the critical attribute of IRF. The Confusion Assessment Method item for inattention was extracted as the variable for inattention. Twenty-eight percent (28%) of falls were classified as IRF. A significant relationship was found between inattention on the shift prior to a fall and the fall being an IRF (Chi-square = 45.5, df = 1, p = .00, Phi = .54, p = .00). Early identification of older adults with impaired attention has potential to reduce IRF when nursing uses this assessment to implement additional safety interventions for hospitalized older adults.
School of Nursing at Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA.
Barbara E
BE
Harrison
Marisa
M
Ferrari
Cathy
C
Campbell
Michael
M
Maddens
Ann L
AL
Whall
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000368:Aged; D001288:Attention; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003221:Confusion / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D007175:Impulsive Behavior / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D007297:Inpatients / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D017751:Safety Management; D017749:Total Quality Management