Assessment and treatment of behavior problems in dementia in nursing home residents: A comparison of the approaches of physicians, psychologists, and nurse practitioners

Objective To compare physicians (MDs), psychologists (PhDs), and nurse practitioners (NPs) regarding their approach to dementia-associated behavior problems in nursing home residents. Methods A web-based questionnaire solicited information about symptoms, assessment methods, suspected etiologies, and interventions with respect to the last resident treated for dementia-associated behavior problems. Results Responses were obtained from 108 MDs, 38 PhDs, and 100 NPs. All groups relied similarly on information from the nursing staff, speaking with nursing assistants, and care team meetings in assessment; NPs were more likely to consult with family members. A standard assessment instrument was used most frequently by PhDs (50%), but this generally assessed cognitive status rather than problem behaviors. PhDs most frequently noted depression in residents. Groups were similar in attributing the behavioral symptoms to dementia and to underlying medical conditions, but PhDs were more likely to indicate depression, loneliness/boredom, staff-resident communication, and insufficient activities as etiologies. Use of pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions of MDs and NPs were similar. PhDs reported least satisfaction with treatment. Conclusion Awareness of similarities and differences in the approaches of different health professionals can facilitate interdisciplinary interaction in providing care for dementia-associated behavior problems in nursing home residents.