Staff Perceptions of Implementing a Person-Centered Communication Tool in the Nursing Home Setting: PAL Cards

Abstract

Purpose: To understand direct care workers' perceptions of the impact of implementing a person-centered communication tool, Preference for Activity and Leisure (PAL) Cards, into care. Method: PAL Cards provide at-a-glance information about a nursing home (NH) resident's background and important preferences for activities and leisure. As a quality improvement project, 11 NHs implemented use of PAL Cards in their communities and provided feedback ( N = 91 feedback forms received) on their perceptions of impact of PAL Cards on care communication and delivery. Results: A variety of NH staff members, across disciplines, were a part of PAL Card implementation. The majority of staff (84%) perceived that PAL Cards helped them start a conversation with a resident and 64% indicated that PAL Cards helped them provide care for a resident. Conclusion: PAL Cards are an effective tool for communicating information about NH residents' preferences to staff. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50 (8), 5–10.]