Implementation of dementia communication skills training in acute hospitals: a longitudinal, mixed-methods case study evaluation

Objectives Acute hospital staff identify that supporting patients with dementia is challenging. This study implemented a communication skills training programme for preventing and responding to distress in patients with dementia in acute hospitals and assessed its impact. Method A mixed-methods, multiple case study in six wards across three English acute hospitals. Observational, interview, and staff survey data was collected immediately pre, post and 1–3 months post training. The 7-h training programme consisted of two half-days separated by a reflective period of 2–4 wk. It was delivered face-to-face by local clinical educators, and comprised interactive content and discussion-based learning including multi-media PowerPoint presentations, video resources, a reflective diary and skills practice. Results 145 staff attended the training. Delivery was feasible, however challenges with training organisation and releasing staff occurred. Staff reported the training as engaging, relevant to their role, and valued opportunities for reflection and skills implementation between sessions. A statistically significant improvement was found immediate post-training on staff communication knowledge (CI 0.01–1.2) and confidence in caring for people with dementia (CI 4.9–7.3). Staff reported a range of learning which most planned to implement in practice. Some reported challenges applying specific communication principles to wider practice situations. Evidence of impacts on observed patient agitation and staff communication practices was challenging to provide. Conclusion Although challenging, it is feasible to deliver dementia communication skills training in acute hospital settings Communication training can lead to perceived increases in staff knowledge and confidence to support distress in this population.