Date of Conferral

10-3-2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Sue Subocz

Abstract

I conducted this quality improvement (QI) initiative with the aim of reducing inpatient falls within an adult medical-surgical unit through the implementation of a Fall Champions model supported by structured education and decentralized nursing leadership. Inpatient falls pose a persistent threat to patient safety, often leading to injury, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. Internal audits conducted through VigiLanz reporting revealed inconsistent protocol compliance and minimal accountability, signaling the need for targeted practice reform. Framed by the guiding question of whether Fall Champions could reduce inpatient falls compared to standard protocols, I evaluated the role of frontline leadership in reinforcing prevention strategies. The purpose was to determine if empowering staff as Fall Champions would promote sustainable practice change. Using pre-/postintervention comparative analysis over a 4-month period (i.e., 2 months before and after implementation), data from VigiLanz reporting was used to assess fall rates and audit adherence. Postimplementation results showed a 70% reduction in fall rate and strengthened staff compliance. Deliverables included Fall Champion training tools and audit tools. The initiative also enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, staff engagement, and improved accountability. Limitations included a brief evaluation window and staffing variability. The Fall Champion model demonstrated scalability beyond one unit, and implications for nursing practice suggest that integrating frontline leadership can strengthen safety culture and mentorship. These findings support continued exploration of unit-based leadership models in driving evidence-based improvements. Broader adoption across hospital systems may contribute to more consistent outcomes and safer patient care.

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