The book will include 11 chapters each one with a detailed glossary. The text will be designed to be used as a reference book in either the clinical setting, classroom or at home. It is not intended to be read from cover to cover in one sitting. The chapters will be divided into discrete sections reflecting contemporary Learning Disability nursing practice. Reference to care in a range of primary and secondary care settings will be made throughout the book. Each chapter will begin with key points and conclude with a summary of the significant points to reinforce learning. Think points will be interspaced throughout with bullet points to allow students to check out responses. The text should be seen as a practice based handbook or manual that has a sound evidence basis, and one that will challenge and encourage the student to develop a questioning approach to care.
Each chapter will refer to a range of key documentation including valuing people (2001) and subsequent guidance arising from this. NICE Guidelines for Epilepsy (Nov 2004) will also be discussed. The book will include chapters on the following: Working with adults with learning disabilities, the importance of fostering good working relationships. The value of key concepts such as person centred planning, The diversity of the varying needs of adults with learning disabilities.
Communicating adults will examine effective communication strategies and also discussion concerning barriers to communication, including non-verbal communication processes. Effective communication within the health and social care team will build on the principles of effective communication described. Caring for these adults can be complex and the student needs to liaise and communicate with a range of health and social care professionals from various statutory and voluntary agencies. The importance of managing behaviours which pose challenges will outline various methods that may be used to support and manage these adults. Mental health issues and adults with learning disabilities. The incidence and prevalence of mental ill health in adults with learning disabilities is higher than within the normal population. Vulnerability factors may contribute to this which will be discussed and highlighted. Epilepsy will be defined and the categories outlined. The use of anti epileptic drugs in the context of the recent NICE guidelines. Health promotion perspectives as this is central to care. Caring for adults with learning disabilities will inevitably involve ethical, moral and legal issues. Ethical theories and legal ramifications will be explored in such a way that the reader is able to relate to them.
The following professional issues will be detailed: - The role and responsibility of the NMC - The role of professional conduct - The issue of confidentiality - Professional regulation
