Reflecting on the care of a person with a learning disability and uncontrolled epilepsy
Intended for healthcare professionals
Evidence and practice    

Reflecting on the care of a person with a learning disability and uncontrolled epilepsy

Sandra Elaine Morton-Nance Hospital liaison nurse specialist learning disabilities, Broomfield Hospital, Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Chelmsford, England

Why you should read this article:
  • To recognise that people with learning disabilities and a long-term health condition are at risk of avoidable and premature death

  • To identify how a combination of reflective practice and the introduction of a virtual nurse-led clinic improved health outcomes for a patient with a learning disability and uncontrolled epilepsy

  • To understand how reflection can enhance your practice

This article presents a reflection on a case study by a hospital liaison nurse for patients with learning disabilities. The case study details the care of a patient with a learning disability and uncontrolled epilepsy who was at risk of premature and avoidable death. Following frequent hospital episodes, reasonable adjustments to the patient’s care and support needs were essential. An integrated approach was adopted through the setting up of a nurse-led virtual clinic to monitor and coordinate care for patients with learning disabilities and long-term conditions. The clinic was instrumental in improving patient safety and optimising health outcomes.

Learning Disability Practice. 25, 3, 34-42. doi: 10.7748/ldp.2022.e2174

Correspondence

sandie.sunburst@btinternet.com

Peer review

This article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and has been checked for plagiarism using automated software

Conflict of interest

None declared

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