For a patient with a history of falls, which aspects should be specifically assessed?

Assessing orthostatic hypotension is crucial for a patient with a history of falls because this condition can contribute significantly to an increased risk of falling. Orthostatic hypotension occurs when a person's blood pressure drops sharply upon standing, which can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. These symptoms are particularly dangerous for older adults who are already at risk for falls, as they can lead to a loss of balance and subsequent injuries.

Monitoring orthostatic blood pressure before and after changing positions—like moving from lying down to standing—can help identify patients who may need interventions, such as medication adjustments, increased hydration, or specific exercises to enhance blood pressure control and prevent falls.

The other aspects—vision, cognitive disorders, and preprandial hypotension—are also important factors in fall risk assessment; however, orthostatic hypotension directly pertains to immediate changes in blood pressure that can result in acute falls as patients change positions. Thus, prioritizing this assessment can lead to timely interventions that may prevent falls and improve safety in this patient population.