Both are multifactorial falls risk assessment tools, which are designed to identify people at risk of falls, to identify which specific risk factors are placing the person at risk and to guide interventions for the prevention of future falls.

The differences lie in:

a) the time taken to administer the assessments - Fallscreen takes 15-20mins, QuickScreen© takes 5-10 minutes

b) the need for specialised testing equipment - Fallscreen requires the use of several pieces of specialized equipment which is less portable than the QuickScreen©, which requires minimal equipment and fits into a small satchel

c) the interpretation of test results - Fallscreen requires the use of computer software to interpret the assessment results, QuickScreen© involves a simple scoring procedure which does not require computer processing

d) quantitative versus qualitative scoring - Fallscreen has a quantitative scoring method, allowing for the change in individual test scores to be compared over time, QuickScreen© uses a pass/fail tick box method of scoring, making it less accurate for comparison over time

e) cost - Fallscreen is a more comprehensive assessment with specialised equipment and costs $4,000 (excl. GST) for the short version and $8000 (excl GST) for the long version, QuickScreen© costs $300.00 (excl. GST). Delivery cost upon request.

The protective sheet should be moved when doing the vision test. Tilt the chart to remove glare or change the light source.

The vision chart has not been used with NESB clients and is not validated with them. There are vision charts available for NESB clients which test the patients ability to identify the orientation of a shape (we have one here with E’s) but they have not been validated for predicting falls as yet.

Users need to consider whether they are applying the monofilament correctly. It must bend and be applied for approx one second to the lateral malleolus.

Each risk factor counts separately for the risk score calculation even if they are from the same risk area- this is because they have all been shown to be predictors of risk independently.

The components of the kit are available for purchase once a complete kit has been bought. The visual acuity chart and the touch rod (aesthesiometer) can be purchased for $75 each, plus postage. The stopwatch, foot placement squares and 3m string, all in a storage case can be purchased for $20 plus postage.

Yes, the template ensures correct positioning of the feet for the test and should be used.

Yes, the touch sensation test must be conducted on bare skin.