Working from a strengths perspective: An evidence-based omaha system care plan for older adults with chronic health condions

Background: A strengths-based approach recognizes and values positive aspects of a patient/family's experience, resources and support systems. A strengths approach supports self-management of complex chronic health conditions using past, successful strategies and resources. Informatics provides a systematic language using standardized terminologies to support a strengths-based practice. In a previous study of older adults with six or more chronic health conditions, subjects had an average of 7.2 strengths (range 4 to12). Methods are needed to promote a strengths-based approach to the provision of nursing care. The purpose of this validation study was to develop and validate a strengths-based care plan for community-dwelling older adults using a standardized terminology. Methods: This validation study used clinical expert consensus to evaluate the validity of a standardized strengths-based care plan. A computer-mediated Delphi methodology was used. A panel of experts in the Omaha System participated. The care plan was developed using the Omaha System and consisted of interventions addressing concepts in the psychosocial and health-related behaviors domains from a strengths perspective. Results: Preliminary results show expert agreement regarding 80% of interventions in the strengths-based care plan. The final results will be available in summer 2013. Conclusions: Strengths can be classified and quantified using the Omaha System. Interventions can be planned and directed by patient strengths. The Omaha System strengths-based care plan supports a strengths-based approach to self-management of chronic health conditions.