Kinaesthetics in 24-hour-care nursing homes and long-term-care for older adults: Observational competence of nursing staff

Abstract

<p>The purpose of this study was to describe the observed level of kinaesthetics competence among nursing staff working in 24-hour-care nursing homes for older adults. Kinaesthetics is a training concept aimed at enhancing nursing staff’s interaction and movement-support skills when assisting care-dependent individuals in their daily activities. This observational study was conducted using video recordings collected between 2023 and 2024. The Kinaesthetics Competence Observation (KCO) tool, developed by Gattinger, was used to assess competence. The target group included 15 nursing staff in a Finnish welfare region. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The overall observed kinaesthetics competence of the nursing staff was rated as good (mean score 11.1/16). The subscale means ranged from 2.7 to 3.0 (on a scale of 1–4), with the highest scores being seen in the environmental consideration subscale. The findings show that kinaesthetics competence among nursing staff in 24-hour-care nursing homes was generally good. However, variations in individual performance indicate that formal training alone does not guarantee competence. Regular practical training in kinaesthetics and cooperation with a kinaesthetics tutor and a trainer will ensure that kinaesthetics skills are maintained after training. Attention should be given to improving interaction and promoting the active participation of older adults in care.<br></p>