An innovative community based nurse led model for perinatal mental health

Abstract

Design & Methods: Quasi-experimental, pre-post design. Data collected included: i) patient level data from RACF and hospital databases, ii) direct observation of the NPC in the RACF. The Nursing Role Effectiveness model 14 was used to examine the NPC role within the CEDRiC project. Results: Outcomes that improved for RACF residents following the implementation of the CEDRIC project included: reduction in the number of hospital transfers and reduced ED and hospital length of stay. The NPC demonstrated mostly independent and interdependent role functions most notably liaison with the GEDI team regarding transferring residents. Conclusion: Findings indicate that CEDRiC improves care outcomes for the older person in the RACF. Care coordination between the NPC and GEDI CNs in the local ED provide an added layer of communication that can streamline care for RACF residents transferred to the ED.