No previous studies have evaluated the individual modules of the DFRI.
This study showed an increased risk of fall-related injuries if the patient had a risk for falls according to the DFRI, especially if they had previous falls and unsafe gait. Although there was similarity in results with many previous studies, these results could be further validated in future studies.
The results suggest that identifying patients at risk of injury is problematic and multi-faceted, and highlight the complexity of the area and the need for a broad, individualised assessment with an inter-disciplinary approach.
However, a fall-risk assessment should be conducted before discharge, focusing on previous falls and gait instability. In order to decrease the risk of fall-related injuries after discharge, the results of the assessments should then influence the level of care provided.
> From: Rydwik et al., J Physiother 64 (2018) 172-177 (Epub ahead of print). All rights reserved to the Australian Physiotherapy Association. Click here for the online summary.
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