TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2011//
TI  - Pilot cluster randomised controlled trial of flooring to reduce injuries from falls in elderly care units: Study protocol
JO  - Injury prevention
A1  - Drahota, Amy
A1  - Gal, Diane
A1  - Windsor, Julie
A1  - Dixon, Simon
A1  - Udell, Julie
A1  - Ward, Derek
A1  - Soilemezi, Dia
A1  - Dean, Taraneh
A1  - Severs, Martin
SP  - e7
EP  - e7
VL  - 17
IS  - 6
N2  - Falls are an issue disproportionately affecting older people who are at increased risk of falls and injury. This protocol describes a pilot study investigating shock-absorbing flooring for fall-related injuries in wards for older people.    OBJECTIVES: To inform future research by evaluating fall-related injuries on the intervention and existing flooring, assessing the sustainability of the flooring in ward environments, estimating the cost-effectiveness of the floor and assessing how the floor affects patients and other users.DesignThis study uses mixed     METHODS: a pilot cluster randomised controlled trial, observation via mechanical testing and interviews. Eight participating wards (clusters) are randomised using a computer-generated list. No blinding is incorporated into the study. Each site has a baseline period of approximately 6 months. Then, four sites receive the intervention floor, while four continue using standard floors. Sites are then followed up for approximately 1 year.    Participants- Any person admitted to a bed in the 'study area' of a participating ward can be entered into the trial. Orientated patients, visitors and any hospital staff who use the floor in a study area are eligible for inclusion in an interview.    Intervention: An 8.3 mm thick vinyl floor covering with polyvinyl chloride foam backing (Tarkett Omnisports EXCEL).    Outcomes: The primary outcome is fall-related injuries. Severity of injuries, falls, cost-effectiveness, user views and mechanical performance (shock absorbency and slip resistance) are also being assessed.    Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00817869; UKCRN ID: 5735.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 1353-8047
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/injuryprev-2011-040154
ID  - ref1
ER  -