Can Novice Learners Improve Dementia Care?
Author Information
Author(s): Duthie Edmund, Denson Kathryn, Simpson Deborah, Barnes Stacy, Betley Wendy, Szymkowski Amanda, Denson Steven
Primary Institution: Medical College of Wisconsin
Hypothesis
Can novice learners be effective clinical change agents for dementia care practice?
Conclusion
The educational intervention increased referrals for dementia care, but novice learners struggled to implement changes in busy clinical settings.
Supporting Evidence
- 277 DC referrals were made by clinicians in Wisconsin at baseline.
- Referrals increased to 300 in 2022 and 351 in 2023.
- Students found it daunting to suggest changes in busy clinical settings.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether students could help improve dementia care, but they found it hard to suggest changes because they were inexperienced.
Methodology
An educational intervention was created for medical, nursing, and pharmacy students, focusing on dementia detection and referrals, with data collected through surveys and interviews.
Limitations
The increase in referrals was mainly from licensed clinicians, not from student champions, and students reported a lack of confidence in suggesting changes.
Participant Demographics
Medical, nursing, and pharmacy students in Wisconsin.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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