geriatrics general-medicine

Morse Fall Scale

6-item validated fall risk assessment tool for hospitalised patients. Identifies patients at risk of falls for targeted interventions. Score ≥45 = high fall risk.

Score interpretation

Low Fall Risk 0–24

Morse Fall Scale 0–24 — low fall risk

→ Good basic nursing care; orient to environment; fall prevention education; document and reassess if status changes

Moderate Fall Risk 25–44

Morse Fall Scale 25–44 — moderate fall risk

→ Implement standard fall prevention interventions: bed in low position, call light accessible, non-slip footwear, encourage call for assistance; reassess daily; ensure adequate lighting

High Fall Risk 45–125

Morse Fall Scale ≥45 — high fall risk

→ Implement high-risk fall prevention protocol: frequent observations, bed alarm, close supervision for ambulation, physiotherapy review, walking aid assessment, medication review (sedatives, antihypertensives, diuretics), patient/family education, document in care plan

Interpretation bands for the Morse Fall Scale. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Morse JM, Morse RM, Tylko SJ. Development of a scale to identify the fall-prone patient. Can J Aging. 1989;8(4):366–377.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

STRATIFY Falls Risk Score · Falls Prevention

Drugs

Pathways

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.

Score interpretation

References

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