People with learning disabilities admitted to an assessment and treatment unit: impact on challenging behaviours and mental health problems

Abstract

This study describes the evaluation of an assessment and treatment unit for people with learning disabilities. Results showed the main reasons for admission for the 48 people admitted to the unit were because of challenging behaviours and mental health problems. Valid and reliable scales were used to measure the behaviours and mental health problems of those admitted across three-time periods: pre-admission, during admission and post-admission. The analysis found significant reductions in challenging behaviours and mental health problems following admission to the unit. The unit was staffed by a multidisciplinary team with nurses making up the largest group of staff. A number of issues of concern are discussed including access to mental health services for people with learning disabilities, the need for robust community services and areas that require further research. In conclusion, the study found evidence supporting the value of the unit and how it may lessen distress in learning disabled people who are behaviourally disturbed. It is suggested that nurses played a key role in the unit but they need to make the support and caring they provide more visible. Nurses need to harness and make explicit the caring they provide for people with learning disabilities.

Nurses' role in caring for people with a comorbidity of mental illness and intellectual disability: A literature review

“…Given that DD is a complex area, it is reasonable to expect nurses to have specialized knowledge and skills (Higgins 2004; Slevin et al . 2008; Vogel 2007; Xenitidis et al .…”

A Social Constructionist Appreciation of the mental health inpatient nursing care for people with intellectual disability

“…These factors range from genetics, behavioural phenotypes, to increased vulnerability to abuse Slevin, et al, 2008). The presence of mental illness symptomatology, often associated with increased need for support exacerbates this risk.…”

“…Slevin et al, (2008) also identified the role of the nurse in undertaking special observations in order to maintain the safety of an individual and/or others.…”

“…Given that DD is a complex area it is reasonable to expect nurses to have specialized knowledge and skills Slevin, McConkey, Truesdale-Kennedy, & Taggart, 2008;Vogel, 2007;Xenitidis, et al, 2004). It is nurses who are with patients 24 hours a day and therefore are best placed to recognise the subtle changes and symptomatology that might indicate mental health issues (Vogel, 2007).…”

“…Nurses who work with people with DD in the inpatient care setting are often the primary staff member present during the acute phase and therefore possibly be placed to guide and manage behavioural responses to mental illness symptomatology (Slevin, et al, 2008). highlighted several behavioural management strategies that nurses may use in managing challenging behaviour, including cognitive behavioural, psychodynamic and family therapy along with social interventions if appropriate for an individual's situation.…”