# Fall prevention through a systems approach: SEIPS, AcciMap and HTA findings from patient safety specialists

## TL;DR

This paper explores how systems approaches like SEIPS, AcciMap, and HTA can improve fall prevention in healthcare settings, based on insights from patient safety specialists.

## Contribution

The paper bridges research and practice by applying systems tools to real-world fall prevention case studies.

## Key findings

- Case studies from 180 patient safety specialists highlight practical applications of systems tools for fall prevention.
- The Hierarchy of Controls framework provides actionable insights for implementing interventions in real-world settings.
- Safety science tools are recommended for future research and funding in falls prevention.

## Abstract

In 2022, two reviews were published in Age & Ageing to summarise and discuss falls prevention interventions. One was a narrative review looking at the past, present and future of falls interventions. The second was a systematic review and meta-analysis of research on adult falls in hospital. This commentary discusses the findings and recommendations of these publications in the context of real world practice using the Hierarchy of Controls framework and case studies from 180 Patient Safety Specialists applying three systems tools and approaches; Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety, Hierarchical Task Analysis and AcciMaps. The reflection on research (published reviews) and practice (case studies) offers an insight for interventions in practice, rather than research. We hope that future researchers and funders in falls prevention will embrace safety science tools/approaches when planning and reviewing project proposals.