Syosset Hospital Emergency Department

Syosset, New York

After identifying nine patient falls in 2023, the emergency department at Syosset Hospital launched a multidisciplinary fall prevention initiative led by the Collaborative Care Committee. The program standardized intentional rounding, using the evidence-based “5 Ps” approach: Pain, Position, Potty, Possessions and Pumps. Additional interventions included safety champions on every shift, visual risk identifiers, bed alarms, family engagement and monthly safety education. Staff accountability was reinforced through electronic medical records documentation and recognition of “good catches.” The initiative achieved a 67 percent reduction in falls, with only three reported in 2025, while maintaining zero falls with injury.

As a lower volume ED that saw approximately 16,500 patient visits in 2025, the department’s staff recognize the challenges of maintaining pediatric competency. The team partnered with pediatric emergency medicine experts to implement high-fidelity simulation training, mandatory PALS certification and a specialized pediatric readiness course. The program focused on critical pediatric emergencies, weight-based medication safety and equipment competency. Outcomes included increased staff confidence, improved readiness for pediatric emergencies, enhanced interdisciplinary teamwork and faster response times during real pediatric resuscitations.