Factors influencing fall-related serious injury in patients with poststroke: A multicenter cross-sectional study in China

Patients with stroke frequently encounter complications such as falls, which can adversely affect their functional recovery and exacerbate the overall burden of poststroke rehabilitation. However, the factors affecting fall-related serious injury remain unclear. The objective of the study was to explore the factors influencing fall-related serious injury in patients with poststroke. We included 7430 patients with poststroke. We collected demographic, sociological, and clinical data and assessed activities of daily living using the Barthel Index and the Longshi Scale. Fall-related injury was categorized as either "none/mild" or "severe." Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess influencing factors. Out of 7430 poststroke patients, 624 experienced falls, show the incidence rate of 8.40%. Among the patients who fell, 498 experienced no or mild injury, while 126 suffered severe injury, with a serious injury incidence rate of 20.19%. 498 experienced no/mild fall-related injury, while 126 had severe fall-related injury. In adjusted multivariate analyses, age, living situation, residential floor, the Barthel Index's bed-chair transfer item score, and the Longshi Scale grade independently influenced fall-related serious injury. This study revealed factors influencing fall-related serious injury in patients with poststroke, providing valuable insights for comprehensive fall management strategies.