Implementing the findings of the MemoryCare project on acute wards
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Implementing the findings of the MemoryCare project on acute wards via experience based co-design: a feasibility study
IRAS ID
237311
Contact name
Katie Featherstone
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 29 days
Research summary
This study will explore the feasibility of introducing and implementing the low to zero cost recommendations of the MemoryCare project within the acute care setting. The study will examine and assess if the findings of this detailed ethnographic analysis can be implemented and if they can improve the delivery of care for people living with dementia, for both staff and patients.\n\nThe findings of the ‘Memorycare’ study have been discussed at a 2 day event, the ‘hackathon’ (November 1st /2nd, Birmingham) with a team of specialist and admiral nurses from across England and Wales, alongside representatives of Dementia UK. The purpose of the ‘hackathon’ was to look at how the findings of the ‘MemoryCare’ can be adapted into implementable and maintainable solutions on acute wards, in the form of small ‘hacks’, simple interventions to beintroduced into everyday practice. These hacks are designed to improve the experience of patients living with dementia, and the staff and families caring for them, during admission to an acute hospital setting.\nIn total three ‘hacks’ have been identified, each covering a specific area of everyday care: communication; mealtimes and hydration; and movement and rehabilitation within the ward. This study will to assess the feasibility of implementing these practices within a working acute ward setting. \nThe proposed implementation phase will take place within one acute ward within a large general hospital under the governance of Aneurin Bevan University Health Board. The research team will introduce the ‘hacks’ and discuss them with frontline ward staff, focusing on the challenges of caring for people living with dementia within their ward and if and how the ‘hacks’ could benefit them. \n
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/0296
Date of REC Opinion
25 May 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion