P-129 Improving end of life care provided by domiciliary home care teams in peoples' homes and boosting confidence and competence of staff. (1st September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thomas, Keri; Rowlands, M Stobbart; Giles, L
• Is Part Of: BMJ supportive & palliative care. Volume 5(2015)Supplement 2
• Page Start: A84
• Page End: A84
• Publication Date: 2015-09-01
• Subjects: Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; Terminal care -- Periodicals; 616.029
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2015-000978.258
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2045-435X

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Few Domiciliary home-care workers receive specific training in end of life care, even though they play an important, but often unrecognised role in supporting people to remain at home nearing the end of life. Focused training enables home-care workers to improve the quality of care, increase ACP and contribute to better co-ordinated cross boundary care. Aim: Evaluating the introduction of training in End-of-life care for Domiciliary Home-Care workers. Method: The GSF Domiciliary Care training programme in End of Life Care was introduced to Agencies across the country. The Train-the-Trainer cascade programme uses action based, interactive learning and reflective practice in 6 modules, using a virtual learning zone/DVD, and resources. Comparative before and after qualitative and quantitative evaluation is included. Results: Increased Advance Care Planning discussions, now part of the initial assessment plan, with information shared with others to improve coordination of care. Service users felt more confident in initiating ACP discussions. Improved communication/collaboration with District Nurses and GPs. Staff showed increased confidence and felt empowered to advocate for their service users. Increased awareness of the knowledge they already possessed and future training needs. Conclusion: This work highlights the important role that Domiciliary Care Workers play, and the importance of empowering care staff who interact with the service users on a daily basis. Use of the train-the-trainers GSF Domiciliary Care Training Programme helped to improve care for people nearing the end of life and collaboration and coordination with others.