Evaluation of a WeChat-based dementia-specific training program for nurses in primary care settings: A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education
• Public Health

Background:

• Community nurses are vital for early dementia detection but often lack formal training, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
• Undeveloped nursing curricula in dementia care hinder effective early diagnosis and intervention.
• Primary care settings are key for implementing accessible dementia care strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an innovative mobile applet-based intervention to enhance community nurses' dementia knowledge, attitudes, and practice.
• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of the mobile app intervention in primary care.
• To improve early detection and timely diagnosis of dementia by equipping community nurses.

Main Methods:

• A two-arm cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Intervention group received dementia-specific training via a mobile applet; control group received general disability care training.
• Dementia knowledge, attitudes, and change intentions were measured immediately post-training and at 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant improvements in dementia knowledge and attitudes post-training and at follow-up.
• Nurses in the intervention group reported increased intentions to implement changes for early dementia detection.
• Qualitative feedback indicated the mobile app program was well-received, acceptable, and feasible.

Conclusions:

• A mobile applet-based intervention is effective and feasible for improving community nurses' dementia care knowledge, attitudes, and intentions.
• This approach can enhance early dementia detection and diagnosis capabilities within primary care settings.
• The intervention holds potential for scaling up dementia care training in resource-limited areas.