To help reduce the chances of having a fall, trip or stumble in hospital, Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) is encouraging patients to bring their own safe, flat, well-fitting footwear when they come to hospital.
The NNSWLHD is no longer providing non-slip socks to patients. These socks do not prevent falls and are not a substitute for safe footwear.
Evidence has also shown that inappropriate use of non-slip socks is associated with an increased risk of pressure injury. Non-slip socks may also pose an additional infection control risk within NSW health services and at home.