H029 Methodical approach for residents with Huntington’s disease and complex behaviour

<h3>Background</h3> In our specialised ward for people with Huntington’s Disease (HD) and highly complex behaviour, residents failing to flourish elsewhere often find peace of mind. The question remains how this level of success is reached. The staff’s strong intuition, built by years of experience, clearly is a key success factor, but a theory-based methodical approach was lacking. <h3>Aims</h3> We wished to use an evidence-based approach to provide good care to residents with HD, allowing them to experience everyday life. The approach should provide guidance and consistency, and improve transferability. <h3>Methods</h3> We searched for a theory-based care approach for people with complex behaviour. TripleC seemed fit our needs, as it does not view residents from their disease’s perspective, but from a personal viewpoint. The focus is not on controlling the behaviour, but meeting the person’s needs. The full care team was trained, allowing us to consistently apply TripleC in our pursuit of providing residents with the most humane way of living. <h3>Outcome</h3> TripleC allows us to draw nearer to the true needs of the resident and provide unconditional care and support. We have transitioned from controlling to guiding and supporting, and more consciously apply interventions. This methodical approach allows us to explain how we reach success to colleagues, new staff, relatives and others. <h3>Conclusions</h3> After implementation, it is vital to keep evaluating and learning. We are currently running a study to define the impact of TripleC on residents and staff, and train colleagues from other wards to expand use of TripleC.