Abstract
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Abstract
Year 2021
October 2021

SHBC1067

Abstract Title
Person-centred dementia care in an acute hospital: experiences from nurses working in a specialised dementia unit
Authors

J.TAN1, C.Y. CHEONG1, F.H.E. TAY2, J.CHOO3, P. L.K.YAP1

Institutions

Khoo Teck Puat Hospital1, National University Hospital2, Ren Ci Community Hospital3

Background & Hypothesis

Person-centered care (PCC) is synonymous with best practice in the care of persons with dementia (PWD). However, the research focus has been in long-term care settings with less attention in acute hospitals. We aim to study the perspectives and experiences of nurses implementing PCC in an acute hospital dementia unit (Care for Acute Mentally Infirm Elders [CAMIE]).

Methods

This was an exploratory qualitative study involving individual, face-to-face, semi-structured in-depth interviews. A purposive sample of ten nurses participated in the interview. We employed an inductive thematic analysis approach to analyse the qualitative data.

Results

The findings highlighted the positive experiences e.g.meaningful connection with patients and the challenges e.g. managing challenging behaviour in providing PCC. The initial challenges were due to lack of prior knowledge and experience. Through formal and informal learning, the nurses built confidence and competence, and also provided support to one other. They emphasised the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in the CAMIE team but raised concerns about the negative perceptions of non-CAMIE nurses on the value of their work.

Discussion & Conclusion

Despite the challenges, adequate knowledge and robust organisational level support are the key support for nurses to embrace PCC as their care ethos in the acute care setting.

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