Inpatient falls in burn units

Inpatient falls are one of the most frequently reported adverse events. Existing literature describes both prediction and prevention strategies for falls but not specifically for burn patients. Severe burns are associated with a high mortality rate and significant mobility impairment. Pain, itching and dressings may influence the rate of falls among burn patients. We conducted a retrospective multicenter study enrolling a total of 494 patients. The burn patients who fell had a longer length of stay (LOS) (p < 0.05, odds ratio (OR) = 1.01). Patients who fell also more frequently had burns located on the head and neck (p = 0.001, OR = 6.33) or on the trunk (p = 0.01, OR = 4.71). Falls did not influence overall survival rates. Visual impairment due to facial burns and dressings may be associated with a higher incidence of falls. More studies of burn patients should be performed to evaluate additional risk factors and develop preventive and educational programs.