Which tool is used to assess a patient's risk for falls?

The Morse Fall Scale is specifically designed to assess a patient's risk for falls. It evaluates various factors that contribute to fall risk, including a patient's history of falls, the presence of secondary diagnoses, the use of ambulatory aids, the patient's ability to walk, mental status, and other relevant indicators. By quantifying these elements, healthcare providers can identify individuals at higher risk and implement appropriate preventive measures to minimize the likelihood of falls.

The Braden Scale, while important, is focused on assessing a patient's risk for pressure ulcers rather than falls. It evaluates sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction and shear.

The Glasgow Coma Scale is used to assess a person's level of consciousness and neurological functioning, which is crucial in the context of head injuries or strokes, but it does not evaluate fall risk.

The AMT Scale, or the Abbreviated Mental Test, is utilized primarily to assess cognitive function and does not directly relate to fall risk assessment.

Focusing on the Morse Fall Scale allows for targeted intervention to safeguard patients against the serious consequences of falls, making it an essential tool in clinical settings.