Employment of undergraduate nursing students for specialling of people with cognitive impairment: A pilot study

Background: Health services need to consider how best to care for and resource people with cognitive impairment, such as dementia and/or delirium, during an acute care hospital admission. Upskilling undergraduate students in nursing (USiNs) is one option. This paper describes a pilot model to prepare employed USiNs under the delegation of registered nurses (RNs). Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate a pre-registration employment model of USiNs and delegating RNs providing specialised person-centred care to people with cognitive impairment and complex behaviours and their perception of workplace preparation of the USiN. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were held with 15 USiNs and 11 delegating RNs. A chart audit examined the types of care provided by the USiNs to see if these were aligned with current evidence-based practice. An online survey was administered post employment about perceptions of orientation and involvement in the pre-registration employment model. Findings: USiNs provided physical care, monitored, and managed care in relation to changes in cognition, behaviour, and other clinical symptoms associated with dementia and delirium. All participants in the study articulated that the model benefited them as stakeholders. Discussion: The pilot model provided effective orientation and enhanced the skills and knowledge of USiNs within their scope of practice under delegated supervision. Conclusion: Innovative models developed in partnership between health services and universities can help to improve the care of people, provide employment opportunities, and support the development of a future registered nursing workforce attuned to the needs of vulnerable people population. (c) 2023 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Australian College of Nursing Ltd.