Prompt action when someone falls can save their life.
You need to make the following checks if someone has fallen…
Is the person who has fallen…
- Clear of danger?
- Are they responsive?
- Are their airways open?
- Is their breathing adequate?
- Do they have a pulse?
If NO call 999 and commence emergency first aid.
Keep the person calm, still and comfortable.
If YES to all of the above, then check…
- Do they have back or neck pain?
If YES call 999.
Keep the person calm, very still, and comfortable.
If NO, do they have…
- Intense pain?
- Suspected collapse?
- Trauma to neck back or head?
- Unusual behavior?
- Difficulty in breathing or chest pain?
- Bleeding freely?
- Loss of consciousness?
- Evidence of fracture?
If YES to any of the above, call 999.
Keep the person calm, very still and comfortable and use emergency first aid as appropriate.
Is the person’s BEFAST test normal? (Checking for signs of a Stroke)
Balance – loss of balance
Eyes – problems with vision
Face – one side drooping or restricted movement
Arm movements – restrictions or weakness
Speech – difficulty
Time to call 999 if you carry out the test and any of the above are present.
This short (1:56) video from the Stroke Association provides guidance on how to do the FAST test.
If the answer to the FAST test is YES…
If the person is able to get up from the floor, you can encourage them to get up unaided. At no point should you lift or handle the individual to their feet.
Getting up from the floor…
This short (1:33) video from RoSPA demonstrates how a person should be encouraged to get up from the floor after a fall.
It is recommended that you share this video with the individuals you support. You may also want to talk to your manager about supporting individuals to practice getting up in this way to reduce the fear and anxiety.
If an individual is unable to get up…
- Summon help by calling for assistance from other staff.
- Call 111 (when it is less urgent than the need to call 999).
- Keep the individual warm.
- Encourage them to move to a softer surface by shuffling or crawling.
- Keep the individual moving. It is important that they do not to lie in one position for too long. They may get cold and develop pressure sores, especially if they do not have much padding! Encourage them to roll from side to side if they are able and keep their arms and legs moving as much as possible.
If the fall has not been observed by anyone and there is a possibility that the person may have suffered a head or bone injury, medical advice should always be sought..
Injuries from falls and what to do
Sprains and strains
Sprains and strains describe when muscles or joints are overstretched which can be painful. This short (2:26) St John Ambulance video shows what to do.
Broken bones
Broken bones can happen as a result of a fall if someone falls from a height or if they land in an awkward position. This short (2:52) St John Ambulance video explains what to do.
Head Injuries
Head injuries can happen when someone falls from a height or if they bang their head when falling. This short (4:51) St John Ambulance video explains what to do.
Spinal Injuries
Severe falls can cause spinal injuries. This short (3:09) St John Ambulance video shows what to do.
After someone falls…
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