The Implementation of a Model of Person-Centred Practice In Older ...

The implementation of a model of person-centred practice in older person settings
Celebrating the National Programme in 2009
The three sites had a celebratory event towards the end of the programme in 2009.
The events were organised as a way of celebrating and showcasing all the
achievements and successes from the programme. The celebratory events ranged
from one day family/community days to a week long event in CNU Birr involving
residents, their families, and staff both in unit and in the community. The feedback
was very positive and generated great enthusiasm and pride for the units. It
highlighted for all involved the importance of celebrating what we do well and the
need to embed that positive attitude of ‘can do’ into our everyday practice and
culture.
Summary
Values and behaviours are changing slowly to reflect a more person-centred culture.
Practices have changed to embrace new ways of working, staff are becoming more
resident focused as opposed to staff focused. There is more focus on the processes
and not just outcomes and a realization that a lot of unlearning had to be done first
before a shift to the new culture of care could happen. There is a greater emphasis
on participation, choice and inclusion in decision making and practice has become
more thoughtful. Staff who in the past felt they had no voice have now through the
development of new skills begun to challenge the culture and status quo. While the
changes may appear small, there is a definite shift in culture. It is the beginning of
setting the seeds of change for older person services, both for the older people and
the organisations as a whole. We have started the journey. Sustainability plans have
been developed for all units in consultation with the Director of Nursing, internal
facilitator, unit managers and programme participants. The challenge for the future
will be to keep the momentum and motivation sustained in the current climate of
change and uncertainty.
Evidence of the Programme Continuing
A volunteer programme for Residents has recently (May 2010) been launched in St
Vincent’s Hospital Mountmellick by the former Taoiseach Mr Albert Reynolds. This is
the first HSE unit nationally to officially launch a volunteer programme. The concept
of developing a volunteer programme was identified as a direct result of findings from
research undertaken by the participants involved in the person-centred programme.
Findings from the residents’ narratives clearly indicated that often resident’s felt
53