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Children's hospital

Tips to prevent your child from falling

Fall prevention is important for your child’s safety during a hospital stay. As a parent or carer, you can help. See the practical tips.
On this page

Inform the nursing or medical team

    • if your child has an increased risk of falling due to age or medical condition (e.g. epilepsy, temperament, poor eyesight).
    • if your child needs mobility aids (brace, crutch, walking frame, special buggy, wheelchair).
    • if your child wears glasses or a hearing aid.
    • if your child takes medication that can cause dizziness or affect alertness (e.g. anti-epileptic medication).
    • if your child feels dizzy or weak, or if you notice coordination problems.

How to help ensure a safe environment

During and after a test

  • During a test, stay beside the bed, examination table or trolley.
  • Try to be with your child when they awaken after an examination or procedure under anaesthesia (general anaesthesia or sedation).
  • Ask a nurse for help when your child wants to get out of bed for the first time after a test under anaesthesia or an operation.

In the room

  • Raise the bed rails (safety sides) according to your child’s age and development. Make sure this is done when transporting your child, e.g. to a test or operation.
  • Set the bed to its lowest position so your child can get in and out easily.
  • Help and support your child if they want to move around the room or go to the toilet.
  • Pay extra attention to the IV line (and any pump), the monitor and the probes.
  • Keep the room tidy so you don’t trip over items such as toys.
  • Never leave your child alone on the changing cushion or in the bath (baby bath).
  • Supervise during play. Let your child play only with safe toys.
  • Do not let your child jump on the bed or other furniture.

At night

  • Leave a small light on at night.
  • Do not let a baby or toddler sleep in your bed.

The right equipment

  • Use a chair suited to your child’s developmental level. Contact a nurse for the appropriate equipment.
  • Fasten the straps when your child is in a bouncer, buggy, pushchair or high chair.
  • If your child needs a standing, sitting or lying orthosis (a custom-made seating or lying shell), position them correctly and safely and fasten the straps.

Leaving the room?

  • Inform the nurse.

  • Keep the call bell within reach.

  • Leave your child safely in bed: place them in a safe, stable position and raise the bed rails.

  • Make sure the room is tidy and that nothing is left behind that could hurt your child.

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Last edit: 6 september 2025