Internet training to respond to aggressive resident behaviors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Resident aggression is a significant challenge in aged care settings.
• Effective strategies are needed to ensure the safety of both residents and caregivers.
• Existing training methods may have limitations in reach and consistency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an individualized Internet-based training program for nurse aides (NAs).
• To teach NAs strategies for preventing and responding to resident aggression.
• To ensure resident and caregiver safety during aggressive incidents.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial with 158 NAs was conducted.
• The intervention involved a video-based, behaviorally focused Internet training.
• Assessments included video situation testing and psychosocial measures at baseline, 1, and 2 months.

Main Results:

• The training significantly improved NAs' knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and empathy.
• Medium to large effect sizes were maintained at the 2-month follow-up.
• Participants reported positive reception of the training program.

Conclusions:

• Internet-based training is a feasible and effective method for improving NA responses to resident aggression.
• This digital format ensures consistent content delivery and automated documentation.
• The approach holds promise for scalable and supervised training in elder care settings.