Table 1 Scale Item Content

1

Much can be done to improve the quality of life for people with dementia

2

I prefer to have nothing to do with the care of dementia patients

3

Managing dementia is more often frustrating than rewarding

4

The early detection of dementia benefits the patient

5

It is important for relative/family carers of people with dementia to seek external support

6

Relatives/family carers of patients with dementia should be encouraged to contact Alzheimer’s Australia

7

GP’s are in the best position to help relatives/carers with organising care for someone with dementia

8

I fear communicating a diagnosis of dementia will damage the doctor patient relationship

9

Guidelines for the management of dementia would greatly assist in providing care

10

I prefer treating patients with other chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus or hypertension

11

The term ‘dementia’ should be avoided when discussing a diagnosis with a carer/family member as it is likely to cause emotional distress

12

Patients with dementia should be informed early so they can plan for the future

13

It is important to inform the person with dementia of the terminal course of the condition

14

It is important to inform the relatives/family carers of the person with dementia of the terminal course of the condition

15

I feel frustrated because I do not know how to effectively treat people with dementia

16

Dementia is better treated by specialist physicians

17

I feel confident in my ability to discuss legal issues associated with a diagnosis of dementia

18

I feel confident in my ability to diagnose dementia

19

I feel confident in my ability to communicate a diagnosis of dementia to a patient

20

I feel confident in my ability to provide appropriate medical care for a person with dementia

21

I feel confident in my ability to provide advice about managing dementia related symptoms

22

I feel confident in my ability to provide advice about managing risky behaviours associated with dementia

23

I feel confident in my knowledge of local resources to assist families/carers caring for a person with dementia

24

A geriatrician review is essential in any definitive diagnosis of dementia