Any low-energy fracture in someone over 50 is a warning of the next, more serious one. Before discharge, three questions take less than a minute and change what happens next.
- Was this a fall from standing height or less? If yes, it is a fragility fracture.
- Has the patient had a bone density scan or osteoporosis treatment? If not, refer.
- Have they fallen before, or do they fear falling? If yes, refer for falls assessment.
- Write 'fragility fracture' in the discharge letter so primary care codes it.
Why it matters
Fracture clinic is where secondary prevention is most often lost, because everyone assumes someone else will start it.
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