Being in unfamiliar surroundings and taking medications can increase your chances for falling while in the hospital. Your health care provider will assess your potential for falling and will use hospital resources, such as side rails, identification items and emergency call lights, to help you while in the hospital. They will also orient you to the room and offer to help when you need assistance. It is important that you and your family partner with the hospital staff during this time to keep you safe. 

  While in the hospital, there are also some things you and your family can do to prevent falls from happening:

• Share your complete medical history with the hospital staff so they can be aware of your risks for falls.
• Any time you feel dizzy or unsteady, ask for help before moving from one place to another. Use the emergency call light.
• Be aware of your limitations and move slowly. 
• Make sure your bed is in the low position before trying to stand.
• Wear socks with slip guards or slippers with soft rubber soles.
• Have a friend or family member stay with you at the hospital.
• Keep the things you frequently need or want, such as eyeglasses or hearing aids, within close reach.
• Adjust the lighting in your room so you can see well.

  After you're released from the hospital, continue to be aware of your potential for falling during your recovery. Try some of these additional tips to make your home safe:

• Wear shoes with non-skid rubber soles.
• Put away throw rugs or fasten them firmly to the floor.
• Keep your home well-lit, especially in hallways, the bathroom and your bedroom.
• Place the items you frequently use in a place you can easily reach them - not too high or too low.
• Add grab bars to your bathroom.