Interprofessional Approach to Fall Risk Screening in Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy

Patients receiving radiation therapy (RT) for cancer are at greater risk for falls because of age, treatment, pharmacologic side effects, and cognitive or motor deficits. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test is a validated, objective measure of fall risk and potential functional decline. The purpose of this project was to integrate an objective measure of fall risk and functional decline using the TUG Test for patients undergoing RT, engage patients in their potential fall risk prevention, and initiate referrals to rehabilitation services or a gait and balance clinic. Nurse-led screening initiatives may reduce the risk for injury by identifying patients who are at risk for deconditioning as RT progresses.