Development of a skill enhancement model for village health volunteers in preventing relapse among patients with chronic schizophrenia in Pho Thale Sub-district, Khai Bang Rachan District, Sing Buri Province
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Abstract
Background: Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) play an important role in primary health care by providing community-based care to individuals with chronic schizophrenia and preventing psychotic symptom relapse. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a skill enhancement model for VHVs in caring for individuals with chronic schizophrenia to prevent relapse.
Methods: This research and development study comprised three phases. Phase 1 explored problems and needs related to the development of a skill enhancement model for VHVs. The 37 participants included registered nurses, VHV representatives, patients, and family caregivers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions and analyzed using content analysis. Phase 2 involved developing and validating the model. Phase 3 evaluated its effectiveness. The sample consisted of 30 VHVs from Phase 1 who participated in the 16-week program. The instruments included a basic knowledge test on schizophrenia (reliability=0.87), a skill assessment form (reliability=0.92), a focus group discussion guide, and field notes. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and content analysis.
Results: 1.The identified problems and needs included reluctance to approach patients, lack of trust, inadequate collaborative care planning, insufficient knowledge, and lack of continuous follow-up. 2.Based on these findings, the model was developed, comprising six components: Preparation, Relationship Building, Assessment, Social Support, Integration, and Tracking. After implementation, the mean knowledge and skill scores of VHVs were significantly higher than those before implementation (p<0.001). 3.VHVs also demonstrated improved abilities in patient care, relationship building, and providing reinforcement to patients and their family caregivers. 4.Patients with chronic schizophrenia in the community experienced no relapse during the follow-up period
Conclusion: This model enhances VHVs’ knowledge and skills in caring for individuals with chronic schizophrenia in the community to prevent relapse of psychotic symptoms.
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References
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