Ko-Xin Chen

Nurses in neurological wards face numerous challenges when caring for patients with dementia, particularly those who also present other acute illnesses. However, studies focusing on this area are limited. This study aimed to explore the difficulties and strategies in caring for patients with dementia among nurses working in a neurological ward. A qualitative descriptive design was adopted. Twelve nurses from a neurology ward participated in individual semi‐structured interviews. The data collected through these interviews were subjected to qualitative content analysis. Two main themes emerged from the analysis: (i) various shortcomings and concerns, which include subthemes: insufficient support, worry about patient safety, inadequate care ability of the caregiver, and insufficient self‐competence, and (ii) unique clinical strategies, which include subthemes: cooperate with the caregiver, improve self‐competence in dementia care, and employ meticulous resorts. The findings highlighted the nurses' dedication to minimizing patient risks and utilizing available resources as well as stakeholders to provide optimal care. To enhance patient care quality, it is essential to support nurses by addressing care‐related barriers, offering continuous education, and establishing care pathways.

Background: Providing appropriate care to patients with dementia in acute care settings can be a challenge for healthcare professionals. A key factor is working closely with family caregivers. Purpose: This study aims to explore the difficulties and strategies involved in caring for patients with dementia who have been admitted to an acute care ward from the perspective of family caregivers. Methods: Exploratory research was conducted using a qualitative data collection approach. Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews carried out with participants. Semistructured interviews were conducted with nine participants. Content analysis was performed to analyze the data. Results: A number of themes and subthemes were identified based on the primary research purposes. The first theme is “vicious cycle due to multiple factors,” with the following subthemes: (a) communication disturbance, (b) endless worries, (c) inadequate care skills of paid caregivers, and (d) physical and psychological exhaustion. The second theme is “do everything,” with the following subthemes: (a) management of the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, (b) constant accompaniment of the patient, and (c) seeking sources of support. Conclusions/Implications for Practice: The results may be used to help healthcare professionals better anticipate the difficulties faced by family caregivers while providing assistance to patients with dementia and understand the related strategies they use. Acute care wards should consider the specific needs of family caregivers to ensure patients with dementia receive adequate care from the relevant parties in the ecological care chain during the care process.