Impact of multimodal training on nursing staff's competencies in dementia mealtime support: A mixed-methods pilot...

This study assessed the effectiveness of a structured training program in improving nursing staff's knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward assisting older people with dementia during mealtimes.

A mixed-methods design integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches was used.

Conducted in a Sydney residential aged care facility, 24 nursing staff participated in face-to-face training involving education booklets, role-playing, and case studies. Pre/post-training assessments included questionnaires, Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), and semi-structured interviews.

Knowledge scores significantly improved post-training (pre-M = 13.83, post-M = 16.54, p < .01). Although attitude changes were not statistically significant (p > .05), participants reported a marked reduction in perceived difficulty when assisting residents (pre-M = 5.85, post-M = 3.75, p < .01). Frequency of using assistance skills slightly decreased (pre-M = 2.75, post-M = 2.25, p < .05), indicating that assisting with eating became smoother or less challenging. Thematic analysis identified four areas of improvement: environmental adjustments, emotional support, early health issue detection, and personalized strategies.

Structured training effectively enhances staff knowledge and skills in dementia mealtime care. Ongoing support may be needed to sustain skill application. Emphasis on environment, emotion, and collaboration is key to improving care quality.