Facilitation and clinical systems support
Introduction of a combined internal–external facilitation model required the development of materials to support the local EDDIE + Clinical Facilitator in each site including a facilitator’s guide, orientation training by the study’s implementation facilitator and ongoing support mechanisms. The local EDDIE + Clinical Facilitator role had four key components—staff mentoring and support; ongoing training (scenarios and equipment); conduit with local stakeholders (e.g. doctors, allied health) about the trial; and data collection (see Table Each local Clinical Facilitator attended an orientation and training session with the study implementation facilitator at their RAC home prior to starting the intervention. The Clinical Facilitator guide covered aspects of being an effective facilitator, available clinical support networks, details on the data collection and reporting processes, tips on keeping staff engaged in the program, and tips on engaging stakeholders. A training resource folder with all training materials including lesson plans, scenarios, and other information on the training was provided.Templates for data collection and communication were also included (e.g. posters, fortnightly check-in), as were a range of resources and materials for their use during the study e.g. trial bag with a tablet & USB (with electronic versions of all key documentation and resources including videos), diary, notepad, and stationery. The guide and other materials were provided to each home during their orientation meeting. Ongoing support and coaching were available to each of the EDDIE + Clinical Facilitators via the study team (specifically the nurse educator and the implementation facilitator) who maintained regular phone, email and visit contact (minimum every 2 weeks), and internally via the SCNAs at the aged care provider.