What is an important nursing action when a patient is at increased risk for falls?

Completing a fall risk assessment is crucial because it systematically evaluates various factors that may contribute to a patient's likelihood of falling. This assessment allows nurses to identify specific risks related to the individual patient, such as their mobility level, use of assistive devices, medication side effects, and environmental hazards. By understanding these risk factors, nurses can implement tailored interventions aimed at preventing falls, such as modifying the patient's environment, providing assistance as needed, and educating the patient on safety measures.

While documenting changes in mobility, educating the patient about their condition, and notifying the attending physician are all important actions in healthcare, they do not directly address the immediate need to assess and mitigate fall risks. A fall risk assessment serves as a foundation for all subsequent fall prevention strategies, ensuring that the interventions are based on a comprehensive understanding of the patient's specific needs and situation.