[Introducing the "DemenzKompetenz" model for German long-term care: Development of a dementia-specific nurse-led care model].

Introducing the "DemenzKompetenz" model for German long-term care: Development of a dementia-specific nurse-led care model Abstract:

Background

To meet the complex care needs of people with dementia, academically trained nurses must be established in care practice. The implementation of extended nursing roles in German inpatient long-term care requires a reorganization of tasks within the professional care team. Aim: The aim of the study was to develop a tailored, dementia-specific nurse-led care model for inpatient long-term care in Germany.

Methods

The study includes theoretical and empirical data collections and analyses for the development of a care model (scoping review, case studies, group Delphi survey, focus groups). A total of 44 practice experts (people with dementia, relatives, staff) and 25 experts at the organizational and system level participated.

Results

The dementia-specific nurse-led care model we present, consists of two core principles (advanced nursing expertise, person-centered care culture) and six key components (comprehensive geriatric assessment, needs-based care planning, interprofessional case discussions, person-centered care coordination, knowledge transfer & coaching, and reflection & practice development). In the process of model development, the relevance of the core principles that affect all core elements became particularly evident.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into the targeted deployment of academically trained nurses. Further, the DemKo model shows how existing care problems in German inpatient long-term care can be addressed.