AIM: To explore the experiences of learning disability and district nurses caring for people with a learning disability at the end of their lives. METHOD: A small-scale semi-structured qualitative study involving interviews was carried out to explore the experiences of healthcare professionals from two specialist healthcare settings. FINDINGS: Healthcare professionals felt that formal guidelines and support were needed in this complex area. The study also revealed that successful provision of palliative care for people with a learning disability requires a person-centred approach. CONCLUSION: Modifications to existing palliative care services, involving joint working, improved co-ordination and reasonable adjustments, is recommended. This aims to address any inequalities in care provision for people with a learning disability who are at the end of their lives.
AIM: To explore the experiences of learning disability and district nurses caring for people with a learning disability at the end of their lives. METHOD: A small-scale semi-structured qualitative study involving interviews was carried out to explore the experiences of healthcare professionals from two specialist healthcare settings. FINDINGS: Healthcare professionals felt that formal guidelines and support were needed in this complex area. The study also revealed that successful provision of palliative care for people with a learning disability requires a person-centred approach. CONCLUSION: Modifications to existing palliative care services, involving joint working, improved co-ordination and reasonable adjustments, is recommended. This aims to address any inequalities in care provision for people with a learning disability who are at the end of their lives.