A dementia communication training intervention based on the VERA framework for pre-registration nurses: Part I...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Gerontology
• Communication Studies

Background:

• Individuals with dementia face increasing communication challenges.
• Healthcare professionals, including student nurses, need training in dementia communication strategies.
• Current pre-registration nursing curricula lack standardized foundational dementia communication training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the theoretical basis and development of a foundational dementia communication skills training program.
• To introduce the VERA (Validation, Emotion, Reassurance, Activity) framework for dementia communication.
• To refine the training through quality improvement cycles and stakeholder feedback.

Main Methods:

• Utilized behavioral change theory (COM-B model) and Gagné's 9 Events of Instruction.
• Implemented a multicomponent teaching strategy based on the VERA framework.
• Employed Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles with feedback from people with dementia, facilitators, and student nurses.
• Collected data via questionnaires (n=51) and focus groups (n=19), analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• A 2.5-hour face-to-face training session with follow-up reflection was delivered to 51 students.
• All students found the training useful and recommended it.
• Valued components included expressing concerns, role-playing the VERA framework, and understanding realistic expectations.
• Students recognized the need for continued training, particularly for complex cases.

Conclusions:

• Integrating behavior change and education theory with stakeholder input enhanced the VERA framework.
• VERA provides a strong foundation for dementia communication training for pre-registration nurses.
• The study underscores the importance of practical, theory-informed communication skills training in dementia care.