Effects of video-based staff training with manager-led exercises in residential support

The effectiveness of video-based staff training with manager-led exercises in improving staff performance in residential support for persons with disabilities was examined. Research staff assisted two residential program managers to implement staff training in health and safety, basic support, and residential support values. Results showed improvement in (a) staff members' washing hands when appropriate, (b) wearing gloves when appropriate, and (c) frequency of positive interactions with residents. These changes in staff behavior maintained over a 6-month follow-up. Following the values training, in one house, brief increases were observed in frequency of residents' community activities. These changes did not maintain. No improvements in these measures were noted in the other house. Implications of these findings for assurance of competent staff performance with residents were discussed.