Quedas em idosos de dois serviços de pronto atendimento do Rio Grande do Sul

The aim of this study was to identify the main factors causing falls among the aged in two emergency care units in Rio Grande do Sul. Quantitative research, survey study, descriptive, with 39 aged, which was applied to verify profile interview, questions related to health, housing conditions related to the fall experienced in the period December 2009 to April 2010. Used the SPSS software to perform descriptive analysis. It was found that 22 (56.4%) were women, 19 (48.7%) were between 70-79 years, 27 (69.2) fell in the last 12 months, 15 (38.5% ) fell more than 2 times last year. As the homes of aged: 37 (94.9%) furniture are sharp, 35 (89.7%) had degrees, 27 (69.2%) had loose rugs, 20 (51.3%) were slippery, 12 (30.8%) had stairs without handrails. It is hoped to raise awareness among professionals in the health/population to the threat of falls in older adults. Descriptors: Aged; Accidental Falls; Emergency Service Hospital; Nursing.