Psychogeriatric Learning Strategies for Professionals Providing Continuing Care in Nova Scotia
The challenging behaviours of many nursing home residents and home care clients have been an issue of concern to the Continuing Care sector for some time. The Department of Health, in conjunction with the sector, has responded to this issue by developing an Approach to Care for Continuing Care Clients with Challenging Behaviour. This Approach identifies Challenging Behaviours to include: wandering, verbally abusive behaviour, physically abusive behaviour, sexually inappropriate or aggressive behaviour, socially inappropriate or disruptive behaviour and resisting care.
The summer of 2004 marked the introduction of this approach through a three phase multi-year implementation plan. The P.I.E.C.E.S Education Program is an integral portion of this Approach and focuses upon the immediate development of an In-house Resource Consultant and in the longer-term, the development of an In-house Resource Consultation Team. This initiative provides a framework and way of thinking that can be integrated into daily practice to enhance the capacity of those providing care.
The Continuing Care Provider P.I.E.C.E.S. Education Program program has been developed specifically for use by Regulated Health Professionals. The education program is offered to Long Term Care, Continuing Care and Home Support and Nursing Agency staff who have responsibility for providing care to persons with challenging behaviours.
