Prevention and management of behavioural and psychological symptoms in patients with dementia in acute care: a best practice implementation project.

introductionBehavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia are very common in acute care. Agitation and aggressive behaviours are the most common symptoms and are challenging to manage. Early detection and a nonpharmacological approach are recommended.

objectivesTo implement evidence-based recommendations for the prevention and management of aggression/agitation in patients with dementia in an acute geriatric care unit.

methodsThe project used the JBI Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System and Getting Research into Practice audit and feedback tool. A baseline audit was conducted with seven audit criteria based on evidence summaries. It was followed by the implementation of an action plan and a follow-up audit.

resultsResults showed moderate improvements in compliance with best practice recommendations. The second audit indicated an improvement up to 46% with the identification of factors/triggers that precipitate aggression/agitation and completion of a risk assessment. The highest improvement was the training of the nursing team (79%). Compliance with the involvement of patients and their families in the care planning improved slightly (14%). The lowest improvement was for the development and implementation of individualized care plans (10%).

conclusionThe project implementation achieved some positive changes. A formalized process for preventing aggression/agitation is in place. The interprofessional collaboration, the support given to the nursing team and the basket of nonpharmacological interventions were strengthened. The electronic documentation and a limited collaboration of the nursing team were challenging. As further strategies were implemented, further audit would be required to assess achievement in change and/or demonstration of improved care provided for this vulnerable population.