Knowledge and attitude of Batch 2018 physical therapy interns regarding patients with dementia in Franciscan Missionaries of Mary General Mariano Alvarez, Cavite

Date of Completion

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy

Keywords

Dementia, Internship and Residency, College Students, Physical Therapy

Abstract

This study followed a descriptive survey design and was conducted in the province of Cavite, Philippines. The participants of the study were composed of 37 batch 2018 physical therapy interns who had clinical internship at FMM-GMA between the months of June 2017 and April 2018. Data was obtained via the use of two standardized surveys: Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) and Dementia Attitudes Scale (DAS) to measure dementia-related knowledge and attitude, respectively. Results showed that the participants were primarily in the 20-23 age range, and majority of the participants were able to handle at least one patient with dementia and were able to handle patients for a total of 1 to 18 hours. A mean ADKS score of 19.79 out of 30, and a mean DAS score of 112.46 out of 140 was obtained by the participants and dementia-related knowledge slightly favored females. Similarly, dementia-related attitudes were more positive among the females. Participants who have encountered patients with dementia demonstrated higher knowledge and a more positive attitude. The highest knowledge and most positive attitude was found among participants with 37 to 54 hours of total contact hours. Overall, the researchers conclude that batch 2018 physical interns who have rotated at FMM – GMA between the months of June 2017 and April 2018 have very poor dementiarelated knowledge and moderately positive dementia-related attitude. In light of the results, the researchers recommend revising the current physical therapy curriculum to include more dementia and geriatric focus topics, as well as adding more dementia and geriatric focused clinical immersion. Additionally, the participants of this study are advised to undergo further dementia education by participating in training and seminars, or through self-study.

First Advisor

Richmond E. Ordonez

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