Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool (JHFRAT)

The Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool (JHFRAT) is a systematic approach for evaluating a patient’s risk of falling.

It is used in clinical settings to help healthcare providers identify patients at high risk for falls and implement preventive measures.

Below is a recreation of the tool for educational purposes:


Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool (JHFRAT)

Patient Information

  • Nom:
  • Date:
  • Unit:
  • Room Number:
  • Assessed By:

Scoring Criteria

  1. Age
    • 60-69 years = 1
    • 70-79 years = 2
    • 80+ years = 3
  2. Fall History
    • No falls in the past 6 months = 0
    • One to two falls or a single injury fall = 5
    • Three or more falls or multiple injury falls = 10
  3. Elimination, Bowel and Urine
    • Independent/no assistance = 0
    • Uses assistive devices/urinary incontinence = 2
    • Incontinence (urine and/or stool) = 4
    • Urinary catheter = 2
  4. Medications: Multiple, CNS, and/or High Risk
    • None of the below = 0
    • 1-2 High risk medications (e.g., sedatives, hypnotics) = 3
    • 3 or more High risk medications = 5
    • CNS medications (e.g., anticonvulsants, antidepressants) = 5
  5. Patient Care Equipment
    • None = 0
    • One device (e.g., IV line) = 1
    • Two or more devices (e.g., Foley catheter, O2) = 2
  6. Mobility
    • Normal/bedrest/immobile = 0
    • Requires assistance/supervision = 2
    • Unsteady gait = 3
  7. Cognition
    • Oriented to own ability = 0
    • Overestimates/forgets limitations = 2

Total Score Calculation

Criterion Score
Age
Fall History
Elimination
Medications
Patient Care Equipment
Mobility
Cognition
Total Score

Risk Level Interpretation

  • 0 – 5: Low Risk
  • 6 – 13: Moderate Risk
  • 14 and above: High Risk

Recommended Interventions

Based on the risk level, appropriate interventions should be implemented to prevent falls. These might include:

  • Low Risk:
    • Basic safety measures (e.g., call bell within reach, non-slip footwear)
  • Moderate Risk:
    • More frequent monitoring
    • Assistance with ambulation
    • Review and modification of medications
  • High Risk:
    • Continuous supervision
    • Bed alarms
    • Environmental modifications (e.g., removing hazards, ensuring adequate lighting)

Comments and Follow-up Plan


Note: This form is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for accurate assessments and appropriate care plans.


The JHFRAT is a comprehensive tool that helps identify patients at risk for falls and allows for the implementation of targeted interventions to reduce fall risk.