Defining Care Units in Nursing Homes
Author Information
Author(s): Carole A Estabrooks, Debra G Morgan, Janet E Squires, Anne-Marie Boström, Susan E Slaughter, Greta G Cummings, Peter G Norton
Primary Institution: University of Alberta
Hypothesis
Can a clear definition of care unit improve data collection and analysis in nursing home research?
Conclusion
The study supports the use of a defined care unit in nursing home research, showing it enhances data aggregation and explanatory models.
Supporting Evidence
- The definition of care unit was applied in all 36 nursing homes.
- In 10 of the 36 nursing homes, the care unit definition led to realignment of unit data.
- Aggregation statistics supported the acceptability of unit-level data aggregation.
- Multi-level modeling showed higher explained variance at the unit level compared to individual or nursing home levels.
Takeaway
This study helps us understand what a care unit is in nursing homes, which can make it easier to collect and analyze data about how to improve care for residents.
Methodology
An observational study design was used, involving surveys and multi-level modeling of data from healthcare aides in nursing homes.
Limitations
Findings may not be applicable beyond nursing homes in the Canadian prairie provinces and may vary with different staff groups.
Participant Demographics
Healthcare aides from 36 nursing homes in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website