Staff experiences of implementing Dementia Care Mapping to improve the quality of dementia care in care homes: a qualitative process evaluation

• DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06152-6
• Publication Date: 2021-02-12T20:35:32Z
• Authors: Alys Wyn Griffiths; Olivia C. Robinson; Emily Shoesmith; Rachael Kelley; Claire A. Surr
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis; Preparedness

Abstract Background Dementia Care Mapping™ (DCM) is a widely used, staff-led, psychosocial intervention to support the implementation of person-centred care. Efficacy evaluations in care homes have produced mixed outcomes, with problems identified. Understanding experiences staff trained lead DCM crucial understanding challenges, yet this has rarely been formally explored. This study aimed examine home implementation, within large cluster randomised controlled trial. Methods Process evaluation including, semi-structured interviews 27 mappers from 16 allocated homes. Data were analysed using template variant thematic analysis. Results Three main themes identified 1) Preparedness - While overwhelmingly enjoyed training, many did not personal attributes required practice change and felt training adequately equip them implement it practice. For their expectations mapper role at recruitment contrasted reality once they began attempt implementation; 2) Transferring knowledge into – Due complex nature DCM, developing mastery regular skills, which was difficult achieve available time resources. Gaining engagement transferring learning wider team challenging, benefits largely limited themselves, rather than realised level; 3) Sustaining perception as beneficial, allocation adequate resources for process often able be provided, fit member’s usual duties home’s ethos future plans Conclusions Many may requisite skills or staffing, leadership sustainable implementation. Adaptations tool, reduce its complexity burden increase chances success. Alternatively, models reliant on required.