Factors related to the feeling of difficulty in nursing care for older patients with dementia in acute-care hospitals

A questionnaire survey was performed for 1,731 nurses in acute-care hospitals to identify factors related to the feeling of difficulty in nursing care for older patients with dementia. A total of 620 responses were obtained (response rate: 35.8%). A t-test for subscale scores on the measurement scale was used to assess the feeling of difficulty, using demographics and character traits as personal factors, and logistical issues as environmental factors. Multiple regression analysis using the stepwise method was then performed with factors that showed a significant difference as independent variables. In this analysis, the feeling of difficulty in nursing care was affected by personal factors, such as years of experience, knowledge about dementia, and preconceptions about older patients with dementia, and environmental factors, such as nursing care methods, manpower, and attitudes toward nursing care among all personnel of a hospital ward. These findings suggested that caregivers should engage in nursing care for older patients with dementia by focusing on positive aspects of the patients through an understanding of the characteristics of communication with patients with dementia. Further, an appropriate environment should be developed in acute-care hospitals to permit nursing care to be provided by a team.