Development of an Automated Self-assessment of Fall Risk Questionnaire for Hospitalized Patients

Falls in hospital settings continue to challenge health care providers. Multifactorial interventions aim to reduce falls but rarely involve the patient as an active participant. A patient self-assessment of fall risk questionnaire was customized in the hospital's computer-based, television-equipped, interactive patient care system. Designed to engage patients in determining their risk for falling, the questionnaire is a reliable and valid means for patients and nurses to assess risk of falls. Key words: computer-based education, fall prevention, hospital falls, patient engagement, risk appraisal, self-assessment