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Using Implementation Science Strategies to Embed Geriatric and Dementia Best Practices in Acute Care
Karen Nicolai1, Catherine A Hebert, Mary Beth Turner
1Author Affiliations: Nursing, Western North Carolina VA Health Care System, Asheville, NC, USA (Ms Nicolai, Dr Hebert, Ms Turner, Ms Trinity, Ms Sheppard, Ms Moore).
Background:
Hospitalizations are challenging for older adults and people living with dementia due to geriatric syndromes and behavioral disturbances. Person-centered care (PCC) is a proven strategy to improve outcomes.
Problem:
We experienced an increase in behavioral disturbances and long stays of Veterans with dementia in an acute care setting.
Approach:
We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and Expert Recommendations for Implementing Changes to implement a Geriatric-Cognitive Impairment Protocol to promote PCC and geriatric best practices.
Results:
Through identification of barriers and facilitators, PCC interventions were enacted, behavioral disturbances declined, and nurses reported a more person-centered environment and improved access to tools to provide evidence-based care.
Conclusion:
Implementation science strategies can facilitate PCC and geriatric best practices through a modifiable nursing protocol.
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