Abstract
An interview method, based on the cognitive interview, was used to capture critical work situations in elderly care, in this case showering elderly clients suffering from dementia. Generally, this experience causes clients to become agitated and aggressive. Twelve nursing assistants participated in individual and group interviews. This study explored whether it was possible to distinguish different sequences and themes in the staff descriptions of shower situations. The results were analyzed with a grounded theory approach and showed that it was possible to distinguish seven sequences in the shower situation, each with different themes and with diverse qualities. The themes showed that there were sequences that contained cooperation, participation, and satisfaction. Two sequences were typically met with resistance. This study also comments on the usefulness of the results and the interview method with respect to education planning and clinical practice.
Acknowledgements
The authors are very grateful to the nursing assistants who shared important information about their work experience of a difficult and rewarding task.
Notes
Ellström, E. and Ekholm, B. 2001:. Lärande i omsorgsarbete. CMTO – Centre for Studies of Humans, Technology, and Organization. Linköpings universitet. (In Swedish)
Esbjörnsson, L., Strandberg, L. and Åström, T. 1997: Vardagsrehabiliteringsprojektet. (unpublished manuscript in Swedish).
Socialstyrelsen 2003: Lägesrapport: Kompetensförsörjning inom vård och omsorg om äldre och funktionshindrade. (The National Board of Health and Welfare; In Swedish).