What is the intended outcome of conducting a fall risk assessment using the HDS?

The primary goal of conducting a fall risk assessment using the Hester Davis Scale (HDS) is to reduce fall-related injuries. This assessment identifies individuals at risk of falling, allowing healthcare providers to implement preventive measures tailored to each patient's needs. By recognizing specific risk factors—such as balance issues, medication side effects, and environmental hazards—clinicians can develop strategies to mitigate these risks. The ultimate objective is to enhance patient safety, improve health outcomes, and promote mobility while minimizing the likelihood of falls, which can lead to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma.

In the context of the assessment, increasing hospital stays or encouraging sedentary behavior would not support the aim of enhancing patient safety and engagement in physical activity. Avoiding patient assessments altogether would eliminate the opportunity to proactively address fall risks, undermining the overall purpose of assessments like the HDS.