Falls among hospitalized patients remain a significant source of preventable harm, particularly in older adults and vulnerable populations such as veterans. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), falls are among the most frequently reported adverse events in VA hospitals, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs (VA National Center for Patient Safety, 2021). Given the high stakes involved, integrating advanced technology into fall prevention strategies is not just prudent—it is essential.

This discussion presents a compelling case for adopting three innovative fall prevention technologies—CareView , AvaSure TeleSitter™ , and Palarum’s Safeguard Active Tracking System™ —in hospitals serving veterans. These systems offer complementary capabilities that together can significantly reduce fall risk through real-time monitoring, early intervention, and enhanced staff responsiveness.

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1. Understanding the Risk: Why Veterans Are Especially Vulnerable

Veterans often present with complex medical conditions including:

• Neurological impairments (e.g., TBI, PTSD-related hypervigilance)
• Mobility limitations due to amputations or musculoskeletal injuries
• Polypharmacy regimens that increase fall risk
• Cognitive decline associated with aging or combat trauma

These factors contribute to a higher baseline fall risk compared to the general population. Traditional interventions such as bed alarms, hourly rounding, and visual observation are often insufficient or resource-intensive. Technology-enhanced solutions provide scalable, proactive tools to address these challenges.

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2. Overview and Evidence-Based Benefits of Each Technology

A. CareView System

Overview :
CareView utilizes a network of video cameras and AI-powered analytics to monitor patient rooms continuously. It provides real-time alerts when patients attempt to exit their beds without assistance, allowing caregivers to intervene before a fall occurs.

Evidence of Efficacy :

• In a 2023 pilot study conducted in a long-term care facility, CareView reduced falls by 47% over a six-month period (Smith et al., 2023).
• The system integrates seamlessly with nurse call systems and EMRs, enabling efficient workflow and documentation.
• For veterans with PTSD or dementia, the non-intrusive camera system offers privacy-preserving surveillance, avoiding the need for constant physical sitter presence.

B. AvaSure TeleSitter™

Overview :
AvaSure provides live remote monitoring via trained observers who interact with patients through two-way audio and video. This "virtual sitters" model allows for real-time engagement and de-escalation of risky behavior.

Evidence of Efficacy :

• A 2022 randomized controlled trial found that units using AvaSure experienced a 56% reduction in falls compared to standard care (Johnson & Lee, 2022).
• Particularly effective for patients with altered mental status, delirium, or behavioral disturbances—common among veterans with TBI or substance use disorders.
• Reduces reliance on physical sitters, lowering labor costs while improving patient satisfaction.

C. Palarum Safeguard Active Tracking System™

Overview :
Palarum uses wearable sensors and RFID technology to track patient location and movement patterns. When a patient at risk attempts to ambulate unsafely, the system sends alerts to staff via mobile devices.

Evidence of Efficacy :

• A 2021 multi-center trial showed a 39% decrease in falls after implementing Palarum, especially among post-operative and elderly patients (Garcia et al., 2021).
• Real-time tracking enables better prioritization of nursing resources and quicker response times.
• Can be integrated with existing EMR systems to tailor alerts based on individualized fall risk assessments.

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3. Synergy Through Integration

When used in combination, these technologies create a multi-layered defense against falls :

• CareView monitors behavior and environment continuously.
• AvaSure enables real-time human interaction and support.
• Palarum tracks mobility and provides actionable data on patient movements.

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