Hazards in the environment that contribute to falls are called which factors?

• A. Intrinsic Risk Factors
• B. Extrinsic Risk Factors
• C. Morse Fall Risk Scale
• D. Barthel Index

Answer: (B)

Hazards in the environment that contribute to falls are extrinsic risk factors. These are external to the person and include things like poor lighting, slippery floors, clutter, loose rugs, obstacles in walkways, stairs without handrails, and cords or cables across pathways. These hazards can usually be reduced or eliminated through environmental changes and safety interventions. In contrast, intrinsic risk factors are internal factors such as age-related changes, muscle weakness, balance problems, chronic diseases, or cognitive impairment. Tools like the Morse Fall Risk Scale or the Barthel Index assess overall risk and functional status, but the environmental hazards themselves are categorized as extrinsic risk factors because they arise from the surroundings rather than the individual.