Christine DiLeone, Annette T Maruca
This feasibility study highlights VDT® is a valuable training method to support dementia care education. Results inform phase 2 of the future delivery of the VDT® in community and public health agencies.
BACKGROUND: As the U.S. population ages, the incidence of Alzheimer's and dementia is expected to increase to more than nine million Americans by 2030. The virtual dementia tour (VDT®) simulation program is an innovative educational strategy used to improve nursing students' perception of dementia experience thereby enhancing patient centered care.
SAMPLE: 143 Nursing students in an accelerated BSN program.
METHODS: Conducted as a pilot, VDT was delivered to undergraduate nursing students using the RE-AIM Framework. A pre/post survey examines student's experience of the care needs of patients with Dementia.
RESULTS: The results indicated a significant difference from pre-to-post response ranging (p-value <2,2e-16 to 5.84e-16) and the median difference estimated to be 2.99, with 95% confidence interval.
CONCLUSION: This feasibility study highlights VDT® is a valuable training method to support dementia care education. Results inform phase 2 of the future delivery of the VDT® in community and public health agencies.