Toward a conceptual framework for the interdisciplinary function-focused care in nursing homes

Abstract

Aim To develop a conceptual framework to structure the shared roles and tasks of interdisciplinary teams for efficient function-focused care of nursing home (NH) residents. Methods A qualitative study using focus groups. Two focus group interviews were conducted on NH practitioners and professors. Focus group 1 consisted of six practitioners with more than 5 years of practical experience in NHs. Focus group 2 consisted of six professors with more than 5 years of educational experience in geriatrics or gerontology and who are capable of adopting theoretical approaches to older adults' functions. Results The post-acute care-rehabilitation quality framework furnished the underlying structure for the focus group interview questionnaire to develop the shared interdisciplinary function-focused care framework. The focus of the framework is how resident care processes should be based on individuality of the residents and include holistic continuous assessments, integration of care, and professional interventions by each discipline. An interdisciplinary process involves setting shared goals, communicating and coordinating roles and tasks of interdisciplinary teams, and providing complementary care. Shared final outcomes are defined as improving residents' independence and quality of life and reducing hospital transfer and admission rates. Conclusion In this study, we have developed the first conceptual framework of interdisciplinary function-focused care in NHs, which will provide an evidence-based foundation for integrated and continuous function-focused care for NH residents. The results of this study will contribute to efficient communication among the interdisciplinary teams and improvement of the outcomes of function-focused care subjects.