Use of Omaha model in care of the elderly

Aim:
This research was conducted for the purpose of determining the effectiveness and usability of the Omaha Model as a tool in the care of the elderly and to provide experience for nursing students as they prepare for professional roles.
Method: This study was conducted as a quasi experimental type of research between February and May 2007 at Çakader Home for the Elderly in Çanakkale province center. The research sample was comprised of 27 elderly individuals at the home. The theoretical framework of the research was developed according to the OMAHA model. Current condition was evaluated with the problem analysis tool. Nursing diagnoses were made, interventions planned and carried out. Outcomes were again evaluated with the problem analysis tool. The care process was explained to the elderly and their verbal consent was obtained. Data were analyzed on a computer with the SPSS for Windows packet program, version 10.0.
Findings: The mean age of the elderly in the research sample was 73.03±10.40 and 57.1% were female. A total of 481 nursing diagnoses were made for the elderly individuals and nursing interventions were planned for 274 of the diagnoses. The most common interventions planned to overcome inadequacies were in the “health education and counseling” and “monitoring” categories. Communication, physical signs/symptoms, coping skills, individual care and support system objectives were commonly used for these interventions. Inadequacy diagnoses were directed at emotional balance for 71.4%, sanitation for 64.3%, nerve/muscular functions for 64.3%, social relationships for 60.7%, pain for 53.6%, personal hygiene for 53.6%, communication with community resources for 50%, skin for 46.4%, nutrition for 39.3%, sleep and rest for 39.3%, circulation for 39.3%, genitor-urinary function for 25%, and substance use for 21.4%. After nursing care was given an increase was found in information about inadequacies in the elderly individuals, status and behavior scores.