March 31, 2025Falls and the harm they cause can have a significant impact on patients and their families.
The annual ‘April Falls’ campaign, launched on April Fool’s Day, raises awareness of this serious issue.
Now in its fourth year at Northern Health, the campaign continues to emphasise the importance of falls prevention. This year’s theme, Falls Prevention is Everyone’s Business, highlights the shared responsibility of all staff in keeping our patients safe.
The campaign is led by the Northern Health Falls Clinical Improvement Committee, an active and engaged group with representation from across the organisation. Their commitment reinforces the message that falls prevention requires a collaborative approach.
We asked members of the Falls Committee and key leaders at Northern Health to share their insights on the importance of falls prevention:
Uyen Phan, Associate Director of Allied Health and Chair of the Falls Committee
“Falls and the harm they cause can lead to poorer health outcomes for patients and carers, including pain, loss of function, and increased fear or anxiety about future falls. Falls can also extend hospital stays and increase the use of healthcare resources. Prevention requires a multidisciplinary approach – so we all have a role to play.”
Paula Dimakos-Pugliese, Quality Coordinator
“Quality care comes from paying attention to detail, acting with compassion, and showing empathy. As healthcare workers, these traits come naturally to us. Be aware, be proactive, and help prevent falls today. If you see a spill, clean it up or report it. If you hear a call bell, check in and ask, ‘Are you okay? Can I help you or find someone who can?’ Small actions can make a big difference – not only for our patients but for everyone.”
Jeena Chhetri Karmacharya, NUM, Ward 16
“Conducting a thorough falls risk assessment on admission and promptly implementing prevention and management plans are crucial first steps in keeping our patients safe.”
Ligi Jomy, NUM, Percy Cleeland Wing
“Falls prevention in wards is a shared responsibility—no role is too small. Everyone plays a part in keeping patients safe. It begins with awareness – we must all remain vigilant and proactive. Preventing falls isn’t the duty of just one group, it requires collaboration. It’s not just a policy, it’s a commitment. Together, we create a safer environment for everyone.”
Dr Sandeep Sharma, Geriatrician
“In general medicine, we support falls prevention by assessing patients’ overall health, identifying risk factors, and implementing strategies to reduce hazards. By closely monitoring mobility, medication effects, and conditions like delirium, we collaborate with the allied health and nursing teams to develop tailored plans that minimise fall risks and enhance patient safety. This proactive approach helps prevent injuries and leads to better outcomes for our patients.”
Alex Brown, Pharmacist
“Hospital pharmacists play a vital role in falls prevention by reviewing and optimising medications to minimise side effects like dizziness, weakness, and balance issues. They help manage polypharmacy risks and collaborate with patients and healthcare teams to develop comprehensive care plans, especially during hospital stays. Through teamwork and patient education, pharmacists enhance safety, improve outcomes, and contribute to better quality care.”
Prof Adam Semciw, Research Lead
“Research underpins effective falls prevention by identifying evidence-based strategies that reduce risk and improve patient outcomes. We are determined to work with staff, patients and our community, to implement effective falls prevention strategies to ensure a safe recovery for all patients at Northern Health.”
Wendy Nicol, Operations Manager, Support Services
“By taking proactive measures and training our Patient Support Assistants in safe patient transfer and transport techniques, we can significantly reduce falls. This, in turn, minimises harm and improves overall patient safety. The wellbeing of our patients and staff is always our top priority. Through education, awareness, and effective communication, we can truly make falls prevention everyone’s business.”
