Acceptability of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory in an Australian residential aged care facility

Abstract

Aim To gain an understanding of the acceptability of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory amongst registered nurses and care staff in an Australian residential aged care facility. Method A qualitative study in which 10 registered nurses and care staff from a residential aged care facility in Adelaide, South Australia, were interviewed to gain an understanding of their views of the acceptability of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory as a clinical indicator of agitation among individuals living with dementia. Results The awareness of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory at the participating residential aged care facility was low but after explanation, its acceptability was high and was described through three themes: (i) positive aspects of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory; (ii) concerns with the use of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory; and (iii) strategies to overcome concerns and to promote the use of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory in clinical practice. Conclusions The Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory is a valid and reliable tool used, mainly, in research and has the potential to make a valuable contribution to clinical practice for the care of individuals living in residential aged care facilities. In the participating residential aged care facility, it was not utilised, but once shared with registered nurses and care staff received support for its use in clinical practice.