Description, and pilot evaluation, of novel staff education to improve care of confused older inpatients
Publication Details
Horner, B.,
Watson, N.,
Hill, A.,
&
Etherton-Beer, C.
(2013).
Description, and pilot evaluation, of novel staff education to improve care of confused older inpatients.
Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing, 31 (2), 5-12.
Abstract
Objective
To determine feasibility of novel staff education aiming to optimise care for confused older people.
Design
Pre/post qualitative study.
Setting
Tertiary teaching hospital.
Subjects
Clinical staff in two geriatric medicine wards.
Interventions
Self-directed learning modules, with access to an education resource officer to reinforce learning in real time.
Main outcome measures
Primary outcomes were feasibility (proportion of staff completing the education) and perceived effectiveness (measured in focus groups and individual interviews).
Results
Twenty-six staff agreed to undertake the education; six confirmed completion of the entire learning package. Participants were enthusiastic about education regarding confused older people. Participants who completed the education modules reported they were satisfied with the format and content of the learning materials, but cited time constraints as a major barrier.
Conclusion
Participants expressed need and enthusiasm for education but uptake of the package was less than anticipated. Organisational support (such as providing staff with protected paid time to complete education) may be required to improve adherence.
Keywords
aging, confusion, education, falls, geriatrics
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