Technology Supported Improvement, Management and Prevention of Accidental Falls in Hospitals

The student will observe fall prevention systems in practice in 2 different hospitals considering how fall prevention technology influences staff behaviour and patients safety in the context of accidental falls in hospital. Accidental falls in hospital are rare but can be life changing for those that suffer them as they are often frail patients who are already vulnerable. Current research shows little improvement with any interventions tested which leaves patient facing clinicians with few resources to assist in the prevention of falls. The investigator believes this is because the measure of accidental falls in hospital is not sensitive enough to calibrate for the different contexts in which patients fall. The student would posit that it is the context that is most influential and addressing the context may lead to improved measures so progress can be made in finding solutions.