Sjuksköterskors erfarenheter av dysfagi hos äldre : en kvalitativ intervjustudie

Sammanfattning

Background: The older population is expected to increase, and healthcare must be adapted to meet the needs of older individuals. A problem affecting many older adults is dysphagia. It can lead to serious consequences for the individual but also for society, as the outcomes may result in suffering and hospitalization. These consequences can be reduced if dysphagia is prevented and detected at an early stage. Research shows that team‑based interventions and rehabilitative measures can improve the prognosis. Specialist nurses play a significant role in improving care and implementing evidence-based interventions. Dysphagia can be associated with suffering, but if care focuses on rehabilitation and prevention, this suffering can be reduced. Aim: The aim of the study was to elucidate nurses´ experiences of working with dysphagia among older adults in municipal health care. Method: An interview study was conducted with eight nurses from five municipalities in central Sweden. The interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The results are presented in three categories, Experiences of the nursing process related to dysphagia, Experiences of collaboration and participation in the work with dysphagia and Experiences of conditions in the work with dysphagia. The findings show that nurses' experiences of working with people with swallowing difficulties in municipal healthcare are characterized by a need for improvements in nursing care, collaboration and the development of person-centred care. Conclusion: The results can form a basis for quality and improvement in municipal healthcare. Furthermore, research is needed that sheds light on peoples’ experiences and how evidence-based care can be implemented in an effective way in municipal healthcare.