Predictive Factors for Falls among Hospitalized Older Adults on Antihypertensive Medications in China

Hypertension is highly prevalent among middle-aged and older adults in China, making them particularly vulnerable to falls due to complications such as orthostatic hypotension and dizziness. Since fall prevention is a key indicator of nursing care quality, this study examined predictive factors of fall risk among hospitalized older adults receiving antihypertensive medications. A retrospective quantitative design was applied using 255 cases (1:1 ratio of fall and non-fall patients) drawn from medical records and adverse event reports of three general hospitals in Hainan Province. Logistic regression was used to analyze associations with fall risk. Results showed that 49.80% of participants experienced falls during hospitalization. Significant predictors included advanced age (p < .001), low body mass index (p = .028), high-dose antihypertensive use (p < .001), polypharmacy with two or more antihypertensive classes (p < .001), and acute duration of antihypertensive therapy (p < .001). Based on these factors, a fall risk prediction model was developed to support rapid clinical identification of high-risk patients. The findings provide a theoretical and practical basis for targeted nursing interventions to reduce fall incidence in older adult inpatients on antihypertensive medications.