What must be completed for all falls by a resident?

When a resident experiences a fall, it is crucial to complete an incident report. This documentation serves several important purposes. First, it provides a record of the event, including the circumstances leading up to the fall, the actions taken after the incident, and any immediate assessment or treatment provided to the resident. This information is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, as it allows healthcare facilities to identify patterns of incidents and implement preventive measures.

Additionally, incident reports are essential for legal and regulatory reasons. They help maintain compliance with healthcare regulations and ensure that proper procedures are being followed within the facility. By documenting falls systematically, facilities can analyze data to improve overall care and safety standards, supporting quality assurance initiatives.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with proper protocols. Not requiring a report unless pain is reported ignores the necessity of documenting all falls regardless of the immediate outcomes, potentially overlooking important safety concerns. Limiting notification to the nurse only if the resident is unable to get up could delay appropriate care and response to the incident. Allowing the resident to decide whether a report is necessary undermines the structured process needed for incident management, putting them at risk and complicating safety protocols within the facility.