Ask HRC: Floor Mats to Prevent Injuries from Falls

​A Healthcare Risk Control (HRC) member recently asked for published information about the effectiveness of cushioned floor mats placed alongside patient beds in preventing injuries to patients who fall while trying to exit their bed. In our response, we cited three recent studies.

Two of the cited studies indicated that floor mats may reduce patient injuries from falls. A research study that evaluated compressed foam floor mats showed that, when paired with a bed adjusted to its lowest height, use of a mat nearly eliminates the risk of a serious head injury from a feet-first fall. A more recent simulation study also demonstrates a reduction...