Yellow Wristbands: “Yellow Means Help”

Yellow wristbands are used to quickly identify patients who may be at risk of falls or reduced mobility.

This system helps staff, visitors, carers and patients to recognise when someone may:

• Need support to walk or transfer

• Be at higher risk of falling

• Benefit from encouragement and supervision to stay safely mobile

Why yellow wristbands matter

The wristbands provide a visual prompt that helps everyone:

• Start conversations about mobility and safety

• Offer assistance at the right time

• Prevent harm caused by inactivity and unnoticed decline

What staff should do

If a patient is wearing a yellow wristband:

• Check their current mobility status before encouraging movement

• Ensure appropriate footwear, walking aids and supervision are in place

• Encourage safe activity rather than bed rest

If a patient meets criteria but is not wearing a wristband, escalate to the nurse in charge.

What patients and visitors should know

A yellow wristband does not mean “do not move”.

It means: extra care and support is needed to stay safely active.