Clinical Practice Guidelines for Fall Prevention in the Neurology Unit

This clinical practice guideline (CPG) initiative addressed the rising patient fall rates at an inpatient general care neurology unit (GCNU) in North Carolina. Falls are a leading cause of preventable injury, yet the facility lacked evidence-based (EB) fall prevention practices. This doctoral project developed a CPG for GCNU fall prevention, which was evaluated by an expert panel using the AGREE II instrument. A literature review identified 20 studies assessed via the Johns Hopkins model, which informed the CPG. Expert review scored the CPG at 100% in all domains, leading to its approval for clinical use. Key recommendations include CPG expansion, staff education, and regular audits to ensure continued effectiveness. This CPG empowers nurses to enhance patient outcomes, promote equity, and improve safety through standardized EB practices.