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Abstract

Aim To investigate the experiences of patients and nursing staff in relation to the care received by older people with dementia in the acute hospital setting. Method An ethnographic approach was used and data were collected thorough observation and interviews Findings Care for older people with dementia in acute hospitals is not always optimum although there are examples of excellent care. Generally people with dementia find the delivery of care and the experience of being in hospital distressing. Nurses strive to provide good care, but this is not always achievable. Sub-optimal care can be explained by considering empathy and Bourdieu’s Theory of Practice. Conclusion There is a need to improve current practice in caring for older people with dementia; approaches to education and practice development need to engage nurses in both cognitive and affective domains; that is they need to gain knowledge and also understanding of patient feelings and experiences.

Available Versions of this Item

• The care of older people with dementia in acute hospitals: listen and learn. (deposited 05 Feb 2010 17:00)
  • The care of older people with dementia in acute hospitals: listen and learn. (deposited 14 Jul 2010 14:48) [Currently Displayed]