I was at a meeting today with the Director of Nursing for D&G, with other carers and representatives of various organisations. The document I wrote based on the experiences of carers was part of the agenda.It looks as if our recommendations are being put into practice, at least in this area.
The most important point was that carers are to be involved in devising the care plan, before admission if possible.
Care plans to be individual, not a standardised form. Outcomes of treatment to be recorded regularly.
Meal times are to be 'protected time', i.e. no treatments, tests or doctors'visit, so that nurses are free to help patients who need it. Patients who need help will have their meals served on differently coloured trays for identification.
No cot sides, low beds have been ordered.
No catheterisation unless essential; toiletting to be part of the care plan.
Not supervising taking of medication will be a disciplinary matter, and nurses wear a sign that they must not be interrupted while dispensing.
A sticker will be placed over the bed of people needing help, unless the carer does not want this. We have been asked to consider the form of the sticker -- nothing too obvious, forget-me-not suggested.
The treatment of AD patients to be included as a module in the local nursing college, with input from carers.
Each ward or local hospital to have a 'dementia champion', who will receive extra training, and will be available as advisor.
The radio programme John and I recorded last year to be incorporated in the training.
It all sounds wonderful. The Director was very determined that it will all be put into practice, and we have another meeting in six months to report progress.
