Authors

1. Weitzel, Tina MA, RN-BC
2. Robinson, Sherry PhD, GCNS-BC
3. Mercer, Sandra DipN, RN, CEN, TNS
4. Berry, Tammy BS, RN
5. Barnes, Mary MS, BSN, RN, CCRN
6. Plunkett, Dee BS, RN
7. Vollmer, Charlene BSN, RN-BC
8. Foster, Teresa BS, RN
9. Friedrich, Lisa RN-BC, MSN
10. Allen, Laurie BS, RN
11. Holmes, Jennifer BSN, RN-BC
12. Kirkbride, Geri MSN, RN, CCRN

Abstract

Approximately one quarter of all hospitalized patients over age 75 years have a secondary diagnosis of dementia. A unique hospital-wide program to encourage appropriate communication techniques with patients who have dementia was provided to all departments of a hospital. Evaluation indicated improvement in some communication techniques. Additional education is needed to disperse the information to as many staff as possible and to sustain the change.