It is very important that we always use the falls assessment tool’s five questions when thinking about the potential risk from falls for our patient. By using these five questions we can signpost our client to the most appropriate care and provide them with the best service possible.

Falls Assessment Tool

1. Is there a history of any falls* in the previous year?
2. Is the patient/ client on four or more medications per day?
3. Does the patient/ client have a diagnosis of stroke or Parkinson’s disease?
4. Does the patient report any problems with their balance?
5. Is the patient unable to rise from a chair of knee height?

* Fall is defined as a sudden unintentional change in position which causes one to land on a lower level.

Referral Forms

Referral forms listed below are for the use of frontline workers only e.g. Health Visitors.

Prefix	Referral Form	Service
a		Care and Repair
b		Expert Patient
c		GATE: Getting Active Through Exercise (Non-Clinical)
d		GATE: Getting Active Through Exercise (Clinical)
e		Pills and Spills
f		Podiatry
g		Central Falls Service Rapid Response
h		ALFA
i		PACE
j		SMILE
k		Assessment & Treatment Centre Wythenshawe Hospital Extended Primary Care Service