Geriatric nursing
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Falls are a frequent and serious problem facing people aged 65 and older. The incidence of falls increases with greater numbers of intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors and can be reduced by risk modification and targeted interventions. Falls account for 70% of accidental deaths in persons aged 75 and older. ⋯ Based on the program results, the model was expanded from long-term care to the university hospital system and outpatient clinics in the same community. The collaboration between a school of nursing and 1 long-term care facility led to the adoption of a significant quality improvement program that was subsequently extended to a local hospital and clinic system. Student-led projects designed to teach community service learning can be meaningful and can lead to changes in patient safety and quality of care.