Fall Risk Perceptions: A Study of Hospitalized Patients With Hematologic Malignancies

Background: Inpatient falls cause harm, increased length of stay, and high costs. Patients with hematologic malignancies have a unique set of fall risk factors, and studies indicate that patients lack accurate perception of fall risk.

Objectives: This study describes patient perceptions of fall risk in people with hematologic malignancies and compares patient and nurse perceptions of fall risk.

Methods: This mixed-methods study used descriptive statistical and narrative analyses. A convenience sample of patients was interviewed about perception of fall risk. Descriptive analysis of patient data and analysis around correlation between patient and nurse assessment of fall risk were completed.

Findings: Themes emerged about participants’ prior experience with falls and perceptions of fall education. Participants who reported feeling weak prior to hospitalization perceived being at high fall risk, consistent with nurse assessment. Several patients reported feeling at low risk. Data showed discrepancies in patients’ perceptions of nursing education.