The Private Nursing Service (PNS) held a workshop in April on the best practice implementation of the Dementia Passport initiative, designed to improve communication between the PNS and patients and their families living with Dementia supporting nurses in planning more individualized nursing care.

Nadya Al Rauili, Executive Director of Nursing, Private Nursing Services, Home Healthcare Services, and Community Medical Equipment Services explained the concept of the Dementia Patient Passport: “Essentially this is a small file for each of our patients who are living with dementia or experiencing delirium or other communication difficulties and their families so that the patient details can be captured. At times the patient may not be able to remember all the necessary details and then staff as well as the key carer from the family can have access to relevant information.”

“The file contains not only information about the doctor or the medications of the patient, but also any preferences they may have; and if they have another sensory impairment, such as poor eyesight or hearing; this will help healthcare staff to adapt their care approach to the needs of the patient and is an important aspect of patient-centered care,” added Ms. Al Rauili.

A total of 60 people participated in the workshop, including staff nurses, educators, and supervisors. The staff who were nominated to take care of the patients and the participants expressed positive views about the workshop, saying that it was interesting and very helpful in the practical settings they experience when they care for patients living with dementia. 

The workshop was initiated by the Patient and Family Advisory Council which advocates for these types of communication promoting activities. This workshop is part of the wider patient care improvement initiative, aimed at improving care coordination between patients, families, and their healthcare professionals. 

This professional engagement workshop was endorsed by the National Dementia Program education team. Another workshop for more staff is scheduled in September later this year.