The STAIR OF KNOWLEDGE—a codesigned intervention to prevent pressure ulcers, malnutrition, poor oral health and falls among older persons in nursing homes in Sweden: development of a complex intervention

Abstract

Objectives To describe the development of a codesigned complex intervention intended to prevent the risks of pressure ulcers, malnutrition, poor oral health and falls among older persons in nursing homes.Design A complex intervention development study. The development of the intervention was conducted in three phases. We established contact with stakeholders in the municipality, updated us of current status of the literature in this area and conducted studies in the local context (1). We codesigned the intervention in workshops together with end users (2). We codesigned the final outline of the intervention in an iterative process with stakeholders (3).Setting: Nursing homes in the municipality in southern Sweden.Participants End users (n=16) in nursing homes (n=4) codesigned the intervention together with the research group in workshops (n=4) in March–April 2022. Additionally, stakeholders (n=17) who were considered to play an important role in developing the intervention participated throughout this process. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.Results Four workshops were conducted with end users (n=16) and 13 meetings with stakeholders (n=12) were held during the development process. The intervention aims to bridge the evidence-practice gap regarding the preventive care process of the risks of pressure ulcers, malnutrition, poor oral health and falls among older persons in nursing homes. The intervention is aimed at end users, lasts for 3 weeks and is divided into two parts. First, end users obtain knowledge on their own by following written instructions. Second, they meet, interact and discuss the knowledge acquired during part 1.Conclusion The intervention is robustly developed and thoroughly described. The study highlights the extensive process that is necessary for developing tailored complex interventions. The description of the entire development process may enhance the replicability of this intervention. The intervention needs to be tested and evaluated in an upcoming feasibility study.Trial registration number NCT05308862.