Evaluation of a Nurse Led Annual Review of Patients with Severe Intellectual Disabilities,Needs Identified and Needs Met,in a Large Group Practice

Abstract

A learning disabilities nurse led health review, with doctor backup, was offered to patients with learning disabilities during 2002 in a large general practice. Prior to the check, patients completed an agenda sheet. During the check, the nurse discussed issues with patient and carer and completed a structured questionnaire. Patient and carer were then seen by doctor and nurse and the implementation sheet was completed. Fifty-three patients attended, an uptake of 91 percent. Of these patients and their carers, 34 percent recorded agendas/concerns. The nurse/GP questionnaire identified further interventions in 62 percent. A total of 79 interventions were identified, an average of 1.49 per patient attendance. At 3 months, 84 percent of patients with patient/carer generated, and 88 percent of patients with clinician generated interventions, had had one or more actions implemented. The check met the majority of identified unmet health needs in these adults with learning disabilities. Annual checks will continue to be offered.