Bridging the gap: an innovative dementia learning program for healthcare assistants in hospital wards using facilitator-led discussions

Citation

Chapman A & Law S (2009) Bridging the gap: an innovative dementia learning program for healthcare assistants in hospital wards using facilitator-led discussions. International Psychogeriatrics, 21 (S1), pp. S58-S63. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1041610209008680

Abstract
Nursing a person with dementia in a ward setting can be stressful and a challenge for staff and patients alike. Healthcare assistants are identified as requiring a specific training program. They form part of the front-line workforce and yet have the least access to training but often most contact with patients. The program in this study focused on person-centered care and used six self-study workbooks. Experienced registered nurses are trained to be facilitators of 12 group discussions in the ward setting. The training program viewed the facilitator as playing a key role in empowering the healthcare assistant but also in promoting reflective practice. The outcomes to date have been positive and showed a development in confidence and competence of the healthcare assistants involved.

Keywords
access; care; challenge; Competence; CONFIDENCE; CONTACT; DATE; Dementia; Development; Facilitators; Group Discussion; group discussions; healthcare; Learning; Nurses; Nursing; outcome; outcomes; patient; Patients; Practice; PROGRAM; Registered Nurses; Role; Training

Journal
International Psychogeriatrics: Volume 21, Issue S1