Fidelity challenges while implementing an intervention aimed at increasing eating performance among nursing home...

To increase the knowledge on fidelity challenges in intervention studies promoting eating independence in residents with cognitive decline living in nursing homes (NHs).

A few studies have documented to date factors affecting fidelity in intervention studies performed in NH settings. Moreover, fidelity issues in intervention studies aimed at promoting eating independence among NH residents with cognitive decline have not been studied to date.

A hybrid study design was performed in 2018 and reported here according to the COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research.

In a clustered multicentre before/after intervention study design, a nested, multicentre qualitative descriptive design was performed. Four researchers with a nursing background, who received appropriate training, implemented the designed intervention. This consisted in intentional rounds in the dining rooms during lunchtime and was based on supportive, prescriptive and informative prompts delivered to residents with cognitive decline aimed at stimulating eating independence. A momentary assessment method was used, based on daily diary filled in by participant researchers after every session of intervention delivery on the following five dimensions of fidelity: (a) adherence, (b) dose (or exposure), (c) intervention quality, (d) participant responsiveness and (e) programme differentiation. A direct content analysis of the narratives reported on the diaries was performed.

Factors increasing or hindering intervention fidelity during its implementation emerged at the NH, staff, family caregivers, resident, researchers and at the intervention itself levels.

Several factors emerged and all reported potentially both positive and negative influences on fidelity while implementing an intervention aimed at promoting eating independence among NH residents. Fidelity challenges should be considered as dynamic in NH intervention studies, where continuous adjustments of the intervention delivered are required.

A calm environment, with staff members showing a caring behaviour, and researchers having achieved good familiarity with the NH setting, the residents, their family carers and the staff members, can all increase intervention fidelity.