Document Type
DNP Project
Publication Date
2026
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Sharon Bradley, DNP, MSN, RN, CCM, CPHQ, NE-BC
Practice Mentor
Sheron Jacob DNP, MSN, MA, RN-c, CNL,
Second Practice Mentor
& Ikeolapo Opayemi, MSN, BSN, RN, CNL, DNP
Abstract
Background
Inpatient falls continue to be a significant patient safety concern, leading to increased morbidity, longer hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. Despite the existence of fall prevention protocols, differences in patient understanding and involvement still raise the risk of falls. Evidence shows that patient-centered, technology-based education enhances knowledge retention and promotes adherence to safety behaviors.
Project Goals The primary goal of this quality improvement project was to implement and assess a technology-based fall prevention education program delivered upon admission, with nurse-led reinforcement, to reduce inpatient fall rates and improve patient satisfaction. Secondary goals included enhancing patient understanding and adherence to fall prevention strategies.
Methods Guided by the Iowa Model for Evidence-Based Practice, the intervention included a brief fall prevention educational video delivered via tablets, smartphones, and QR code access, supported by nurse-led reinforcement during admission and shift changes. Data were collected from one medical-surgical and one orthopedic unit. Process measures included timely education delivery and completion rates. Outcome measures included fall rates per 1,000 patient-days, fall-related injuries, and patient-reported satisfaction with education.
Results Fall rates decreased materially, with a 72.7% reduction on the medical-surgical unit and a 100% reduction on the orthopedic unit. Fall-related injuries decreased by 75%. Patient satisfaction and understanding reached 100%. Variability in staff adherence was observed due to workflow demands.
Conclusion Technology-based education with nurse reinforcement reduced inpatient falls and improved patient satisfaction. Sustained success will require workflow integration, ongoing staff engagement, and reinforcement strategies.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Hall, L. & MItchell, C. (2026). Implementing a technology-based fall prevention inpatient education program: A quality improvement project [Unpublished DNP project]. Sacred Heart University.
Comments
A DNP project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice, Sacred Heart University Davis & Henley College of Nursing.