[Quality characteristics in 24-hour care from the perspective of those affected - Results of a pilot study in Austria].

Quality characteristics in 24-hour care from the perspective of those affected. Results of a pilot study in Austria Abstract.

Background

Of the almost 460 000 recipients of care allowance in Austria, 80 % are cared for at home. In 2018, more than 32 000 people were cared for at home by a total of almost 65 000 24-hour caregivers. Isolated work situations in combination with complex illnesses of the clients, often inadequate training and a lack of language skills of the personal carers have a challenging effect on the quality of care. Aim: The aim of the pilot study is to describe quality characteristics in 24-hour personal care from the perspective of the actors involved. The research question relates firstly to the individual experience and secondly to the desired quality of care.

Methods

The survey method used is an individual survey along a guideline; the summarising content analysis has been chosen as the evaluation method.

Results

A total of 32 interviews were conducted (14 relatives, 1 client, 8 caregivers and 9 DGKP). In the analysis process, it was possible to map all the aspects mentioned using the developed main category "field of action-oriented quality characteristics". These relate to comprehensive everyday care, specialist nursing and medical activities, individual care, language skills and communication, as well as initial and continuing training and interface management.

Conclusions

The development of binding quality criteria together with continuous external support is essential to ensure sustainable quality of care. This could be taken over by the established social associations.