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Background Statistics show that the number of older people in need of care is increasing worldwide, especially those with dementia. This implies demands on knowledge and competence among health care staff to care for them. In Sweden, Silviahemmet offers dementia care units the opportunity to become certified according to a special certification educational model. Silviahemmet provides educational programs for staff in dementia care and day care for person with dementia. All staff undergoes a systematic training course in dementia care. The aim of the study was to gain an understanding of how an educational model developed the perceived knowledge of staff caring for older persons with dementia in a nursing home. Method A phenomenographical approach was used and qualitative interviews were carried out with 13 staff members in a nursing home. Findings The main results show that staff perceives the importance of knowledge, working together and creating a sense of fellowship. The care of persons with dementia requires a special approach and adherence. Participating in the educational program made the staff realize and acknowledge their tacit knowledge and the importance of reflection-in-action together in the team. Conclusion The results indicate the need for a common theoretical knowledge base and value system to achieve coherence in daily work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For 40 years cricoid pressure has been used to prevent regurgitation of gastric contents during induction of anaesthesia. Recent studies have emphasised use of more moderate force so as not to deteriorate ventilation or endotracheal intubation. This study was undertaken to assess the current practice and knowledge of cricoid pressure among anaesthesia personnel in southern Sweden.Methods: Forty-eight subjects at two anaesthetic departments in southern Sweden were asked to apply and maintain cricoid pressure for 60 s with their dominant and non-dominant hands, respectively, in a laryngotracheal model during simulated intravenous induction of anaesthesia. Where and how pressure was applied as well as the force used by each subject was recorded together with information on individual experience and knowledge of the technique.Results: There were no significant changes in force applied over time, and no significant differences in force between dominant (median 36 N; 25th percentile 26 N; 75th percentile 50 N) and non-dominant (37; 26; 50 N) hand, between female and male subjects or between physicians, nurses and assistant nurses. Force exceeding 60 N was recorded at least once in 21% of subjects. More than two-thirds (69%) had not heard of any recommended level of force to be applied. Forty percent of anaesthesiologists were unaware of any contraindications.Conclusion: More specific education and training seems mandatory to improve clinical use of cricoid pressure and possibly increase patient safety. Simulators allowing cricoid pressure to be carried out and evaluated in a standardised manner should therefore be incorporated into future training programmes and airway management courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]