Exploring dementia care in acute care settings: Perspectives of nurses and social workers on caring for patients with behavioral and psychological symptoms

ABSTRACT

This qualitative study compares perspectives of nurses (n = 5) and social workers (n = 12) about their role in caring for patients with dementia with behavioral and psychological problems in an acute care setting. A thematic qualitative analysis was conducted using the Rigorous and Accelerated Data Reduction Technique (RADaR). Three themes emerged: engagement of the patient and coordination with family and professionals, treatment and medical management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in the hospital, and barriers to care. Barriers to care are identified by both professions, with each having its own care niche. Social workers and nurses work as a team with the understanding that they face care challenges. Person centered care is a successful approach for the care team working with patients with BPSD.

KEYWORDS:

• Nurses
• social workers
• dementia care
• acute care

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.