Use of the Behaviour Change Wheel to design an intervention to improve the implementation of family-centred care in adult audiology services

Objective: This study describes the development of an intervention to improve family-centred care in adult audiology services. 

Design: The Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) was followed to develop the intervention. The BCW involves eight steps across three stages: (1) understanding the behaviour, (2) identifying intervention options, and (3) identifying content and implementation options. 

Study Sample: The data in Stage 1 comprised of 13 interviews with clinic staff. The research team drew on their own expertise and empirical research to complete Stages 2 and 3. 

Results: A two-phase, face-to-face intervention was developed to change clinic staff’ behaviours to address two problem behaviours: (1) increase family member attendance to adult audiology appointments; and (2) increase family member involvement within appointments. Three target behaviours were chosen for the intervention to address the two problem behaviours. A variety of intervention functions and behaviour change techniques were incorporated into the intervention. 

Conclusion: The BCW provided a useful framework for developing a whole-of-clinic intervention to increase family member attendance and involvement in adult audiology appointments. Recent research in social psychology has suggested that this type of family involvement and support in healthcare is a strong predictor of well-being for adult clients and their families.