Scenario-based simulation training as a method to increase nursing students' competence in demanding situations in dementia care. A mixed method study.

Abstract

Dementia is a debilitating condition affecting personality, day-to-day activities and cognitive function, which in turn may hamper the patient's decision-making capacity. This challenges staff competence in ethics and legislation in order to enhance dignity through improved communication and avoid coercive treatment. Scenario-based simulation training can increase communication skills in demanding situations. This study aimed to explore if this also applies to nursing students within dementia care, and if nursing students improve their ethical reflection and ability to avoid the use of coercion. This was piloted in a concurrent mixed method design using focus groups, questionnaires and observations. Twelve students from the bachelor of nursing programme participated. The results showed that two training sessions increased the use of confidence-building approaches and the students became more aware of the importance of person-centred dementia care and the importance of knowing the patient's history, to gain the patient's trust. Furthermore, the students' knowledge regarding legislation concerning coercion increased, and they became more aware of own attitudes and documenting deviations from treatment. Scenario-based simulation training seems to be a useful approach for preparing nursing students to become more aware of demanding situations in dementia care and how to handle such situations.