1. 1. Describe the Baycrest Quick-Response Caregiver Tool

2. 2. Describe the feasibility and utility of the tool in the long-term care context

Background: Neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia (NPS) are common and result in poor outcomes such as caregiver burnout, poor quality of life, and elevated health care costs. The Baycrest Quick-Response Caregiver Tool TM (BQRCT) assists the caregiver to manage NPS in real time. Previously, the tool was studied in community- based family caregivers with positive results in terms of its feasibility and ease of use. The current study adapted the training module for health care professionals in the long-term care (LTC) context and assessed its utility and feasibility using a mixed-Methods approach.

Methods: The online training module involves a video about neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia and a general overview of the tool, and 3 videos involving actors to demonstrate how LTC staff could use the tool in typical scenarios. A short instruction manual and pocket guide are included in the tool. Participants completed a pre-survey, the training module, and post-surveys immediately following the training, and after 4 weeks. Survey data included demographics, face-valid Likert questions for program impact, and feasibility questions.

Results: Twenty-four staff participants were recruited from LTC homes. The average number of years working with persons with dementia was 7.41. The BQRCT was found to be “moderately” to “extremely” useful in 87% of participants. 79% of participants would recommend the tool to other staff in LTC. At 4 weeks post intervention, 79% of participants reported that their interactions with residents improved as a result of viewing the BQRCT and 54% responded “much” or “very much” regarding learning effective steps to respond to residents’ symptoms. 83% of participants reported that the training module helped them implement the steps in the BQRCT. The qualitative analysis revealed that the tool was educational, informative, and reflected realistic scenarios. Participants found the tool to be practical, understandable, and easy to use. The tool allowed LTC staff to develop empathy through self-reflection.

Conclusions: The BQRCT was found to be feasible and of utility for the majority of participants in the LTC setting. The training module was found to be easy to use and fostered empathy and self-reflection in formal caregivers.