Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Family Nurse Practioner
Year Degree Awarded
2021
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/24271263
Month Degree Awarded
September
Keywords
robot pets, pet therapy dementia, adult learning, dementia training
Advisor
Dr. Joohyun Chung
Abstract
Background and Review of Literature: Dementia is a progressive disease of memory and functioning that affects almost six million people in the United States. Elders with dementia often experience depression, as well as behaviors such as agitation or wandering. Antipsychotic medications have been used to manage behaviors in dementia, but these medications can have serious side effects. There is data on effective non-pharmaceutical approaches to behavior management in dementia, but these techniques are not always used. The use of robot pets is a potential intervention, but there are currently no programs that include training about robot pets in dementia care.
Purpose: The purpose of this project was to determine if education can increase nursing home workers’ knowledge of robot pets and perception of them as a beneficial intervention in dementia care.
Methods: A quantitative design project was performed using a short training video and pre- and post-questionnaires.
Results: The project demonstrated that a training module of skilled nursing facility staff can increase the knowledge about, and willingness to use, robot pets in dementia care.
Conclusion: The project showed that training increased staff willingness to use robot pets as an intervention in dementia care.
Creative Commons License
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