When an older person falls: why nursing practice needs to change

Complications of a long lie that can result from ambulance delays mean it is essential we reassess how to manage older people in the immediate aftermath of a fall

The outdated notion of not moving someone and keeping them nil by mouth because they have fallen needs to change.

Evidence shows us that this current practice is actually causing harm.

After discussion with colleagues about increasing number of patients we see attending our older persons assessment service (OPAS) or emergency department (ED) after a fall and a long lie, I decided a new approach was needed.

Slow ambulance response times and complications of long lie

Across Swansea, we have been trialling a