Pilot Testing of the EIT-4-BPSD Intervention.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Home Care
• Dementia Care

Background:

• Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are prevalent in nursing home residents.
• Nonpharmacological interventions are mandated as first-line treatment by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
• Healthcare staff often lack the knowledge to implement these crucial interventions effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pilot test the Evidence Integration Triangle for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (EIT-4-BPSD) implementation strategy.
• To assess the strategy's ability to help staff integrate behavioral interventions into routine dementia care.

Main Methods:

• The EIT-4-BPSD strategy was implemented across two nursing homes.
• A research nurse facilitator collaborated with facility champions and a stakeholder team.
• The implementation involved four distinct steps of the EIT-4-BPSD over a six-month period with 21 residents.

Main Results:

• Evidence of successful reach to all nursing home staff was observed.
• Significant effectiveness was noted, including improved resident quality of life and reduced agitation.
• Adoption was supported by changes in environment, policy, and resident care plans.

Conclusions:

• The EIT-4-BPSD is a viable strategy for implementing nonpharmacological interventions for BPSD in nursing homes.
• The pilot demonstrated positive effects on resident well-being and staff engagement.
• Plans for sustained implementation beyond the study period were established.