| Abstract [eng] |
Jolita Jančevskaja, Master's Thesis in the Advanced Nursing Practice Study Program: "Nurses' experiences in creating a safe environment for patients with dementia." Supervisor–assist. dr. Rasa Stundžienė. Consultant – assist. dr. Agnė Jakavonytė-Akstinienė. Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing. Vilnius, 2025; 74 pages (excluding appendices and reference list). Rationale: Individuals with dementia experience not only memory impairments but also behavioural and emotional disturbances. Aggressive behaviour, occurring in 70–90% of cases, can pose a threat to both patients and those around them. Nurses with specialized skills and experience in working with dementia patients can create a safe environment and play a key role in improving the care of hospitalized individuals with dementia. Aim of the Study. To identify nurses' experiences in creating a safe environment for patients with dementia. Objectives of the Study: 1. To assess nurses’ experiences regarding a safe environment for patients with dementia. 2. To identify the challenges faced by nurses in creating a safe environment for patients with dementia. 3. To evaluate nurses’ training needs related to creating a safe environment for patients with dementia. Research Methods. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. The questions were developed by the researcher based on an analysis of Lithuanian and international scientific literature. Data were analysed using content analysis. The interviews were conducted from November 2024 to February 2025. The study was carried out in two long-term care and nursing hospitals with specialized dementia care units. Results. The study revealed that nurses focus heavily on adapting the environment, removing hazardous objects, continuous monitoring, medication control, and ensuring emotional security when communicating with patients. Creating a safe environment is considered a complex process that includes physical, social, and emotional safety. Challenges identified include communication difficulties with patients and their relatives, behavioural fluctuations, aggression, disorientation, lack of communication skills, and emotional burnout among nurses. Conclusions. In creating a safe environment, nurses apply individualized care, various safety measures, and actively contribute to patient safety. However, they often face challenges related to the unrealistic expectations of patients' relatives and communication difficulties with dementia patients caused by speech disorders, mood swings, or aggression. Nurses actively participate in specialized training and express the need to further develop their knowledge in patient behaviour management, psychology, emotional resilience, and innovative care practices. |
