Evaluation of a ‘Safe Recovery’ intervention to prevent falls in rehabilitation wards

Overview

The ‘Safe Recovery’ intervention is an evidence-based patient education program shown to reduce falls in Australian rehabilitation settings. However, translating interventions to different contexts can lead to different outcomes. In this study we will work alongside CDHB staff to evaluate the effectiveness of a 4-month pilot ‘Safe Recovery’ intervention aimed at reducing the number of falls within four older person rehabilitation wards. The different ways that the ‘Safe Recovery’ intervention has been modified to make it suitable for the specific location and population will also be explored, and this will contribute to the ongoing development of the ‘Safe Recovery’ intervention internationally.

Method

We are using realist evaluation methods to explore to what extent, and how, the ‘Safe Recovery’ intervention works. We are analyse de-identified process and outcome audit data collected by CDHB staff, along with staff and patient surveys. We are also conducting qualitative interviews and focus groups to explore the views of patients, staff and volunteers on their experience of the intervention.

Researchers/collaborators

BAIL and Older Persons Health, CDHB
• Dr Rachelle Martin (BAIL)
• Dr Jo Nunnerley (BAIL)
• Benn Dickie (CDHB)
• Rachel Marshall (CDHB)
• Dr Sarah Hurring (CDHB)
• Dr Helen Skinner (CDHB)

Key contact

Dr Rachelle Martin, Burwood Academy of Independent Living

Phone: 03 383 6871
Fax: 03 383 7500
Mobile: 021 112 5596
Email:Dr Rachelle Martin

Other researchers and collaborators

Benn Dickie,
Rachel Marshall,
Dr Sarah Hurring
Dr Helen Skinner
Older Persons Health,Canterbury District Health Board

Status of the research 

Data collection: Underway
The 4-month pilot finishes at the end of November 2018. We are collecting data currently and will start analysis at the end of November.

Outputs

Conference presentation: The 8th Biennial Australia and New Zealand Falls Prevention Conference (ANZFP), Hobart, Tasmania, 18th – 20th November 2018