Registered nurses' experiences with, and feelings and attitudes towards, interRAI-LTCF in New Zealand in 2017 : a thesis presented in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Health at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

Background The International Resident Assessment Instrument for Long Term Care Facilities (interRAI-­‐LTCF) is a web-­‐based assessment tool designed to comprehensively assess older adults (>65 years) living in aged residential care. InterRAI-­‐LTCF is used in over thirty countries, but in 2015 New Zealand (NZ) was the first country where it was made mandatory in all facilities. No previous research about Registered Nurses’ (RN) views on interRAI-­‐LTCF in NZ has been conducted. The purpose of this study was to explore RNs’ experiences, feelings and attitudes towards interRAI-­‐LTCF, and what they believed would improve their experiences. Methods The study was qualitative, using an exploratory and descriptive approach. Twelve interviews were conducted 18 months after interRAI-­‐LTCF became mandatory in NZ. The interview questions were based on a United Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model with some modifications. Findings were analysed thematically. Results The findings reveal that RNs of all ages embrace technology, and have mostly positive attitudes towards interRAI-­‐LTCF as a standardised and comprehensive assessment tool. Limited value however is seen in dementia and end of life care. RNs report good experiences with trainers and venues, but inconsistency between training courses. Negative feelings towards interRAI-­‐LTCF were caused by insufficient time to complete assessments, often due to duplication of data entry and insufficient RNs trained. RNs also feel apprehensive about the annual Assessment & Intelligence Systems, Inc. (AIS) competency tests. RNs believe the development of automated care plans and an automated password retrieval system would improve their experience. They also suggested that specific cultural considerations for Māori residents should be reviewed. Conclusion Overall RNs supported the use of interRAI-­‐LTCF as a comprehensive assessment tool. Duplication in data entry, insufficient training, and the annual AIS tests caused most stress and negative feelings. Recommendations were made to rectify this. Key Words Older adults, interRAI-­‐LTCF, Registered Nurses, aged residential care, UTAUT