Falls Assessment in OASIS-C
December 1, 2009
The OASIS-C dataset assesses whether or not the patient has had a fall risk assessment. In the item intent in Chapter 3 it further states that the multi-factor falls risk assessment that has been validated as effective in identifying falls risk in community-dwelling elders and which includes a standard response scale.
Although many falls risk assessments that meet these requirements are available, the one that is perhaps easiest to use and has been proven to be validated is the Timed Up and Go Test. This test uses only a chair and a tape measure and can be performed in just a few minutes. Patients who do not do well on a Timed Up and Go may be candidates for physical therapy and the use of this or a similar test will validate the patient’s need in a RAC audit.
December 2, 2009 at 7:27 am
While the TUG test is a good tool, it is not multi-factoral. So you would need to consider another tool along with the TUG test.
December 4, 2009 at 8:15 pm
You are correct! There is much more to a falls risk assessment than a simple Timed Up and Go! Thank you for clarifying!
December 2, 2009 at 10:26 pm
The Timed Up and Go Test is good for more than just the fall risk assessment. Think of other parts of the oasis that data can be obtained from this simple test eg. SOB,verbal cueing, physical assistance,cognitiveablity,hearing and vision to name a few. This is a good was to get the staff to standard data collection.
December 4, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Great point, Mona. All the information is there. It is just a matter of tuning into the finer points of assessment that you listed.
December 7, 2009 at 9:05 am
looking for a audio conference or text for therapy documentation , thresholds , in preparation for RAC audits .