Abstract
Background: Patient falls constitute one of the most frequent and significant adverse events in the hospital setting, directly impacting patient safety, prolonging the length of hospitalization, and escalating healthcare costs. Falls from bed are particularly problematic as they occur within an environment that is recovery-oriented and supposed to be highly controlled and secure. The objective of this study was to identify the risk factors contributing to inpatient falls, evaluate the baseline clinical knowledge, and analyze the pivotal role of nurses in their prevention through systematic assessment and preventative interventions while mapping structural barriers. Materials and Methods: This study utilized a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional research design. Data collection was carried out using a specialized, structured 13-item questionnaire designed to assess the knowledge, clinical practices, and preventative measures implemented by nursing staff regarding hospital falls. The study was conducted with the voluntary participation of 52 nurses operating across various clinical hospital departments. Data were gathered anonymously, rigorously respecting the ethical principles of confidentiality, informed consent, and the right to withdraw at any stage of the research. The instrument included variables on demographic data, clinical knowledge of predisposing risk factors, use of standardized assessment tools, and current safety practices. Results and Discussion: The findings indicated that the nursing personnel possess a strong theoretical understanding of fall-related risk factors and safety measures. The majority of participants emphasized the critical importance of early risk identification and continuous daily monitoring. However, a major protocol gap was identified: 48.1% of departments do not utilize any structured fall scale, and 50.0% of nurses are completely unaware of their institution’s approved tool. High workload (42.3%) and acute staffing shortages (40.4%) were reported as primary operational bottlenecks. The results demonstrate that preventing patient falls is inextricably linked to resolving structural human resource constraints and reinforcing strict adherence to standardized safety procedures. Conclusions: Inpatient falls remain a critical challenge within healthcare delivery systems. Enhancing continuous nursing education, optimizing clinical nurse-to-patient ratios, and establishing mandatory, institutionalized preventative protocols are paramount to minimizing risks and guaranteeing high-quality patient safety.