Do learning disability services need epilepsy specialist nurses?

Abstract

Epilepsy is known to cause higher rates of morbidity and mortality than in the general population. It is estimated that one third of people with a learning disability also have epilepsy, and that their epilepsy is generally more difficult to control. Given these two statements and with the trend to place the majority of people with learning disabilities in small community homes rather than large medical institutions, it follows that there is a need for up-to-date information and education for individuals and carers in a variety of settings to ensure best care and quality of life is achieved. Is there a need for specialist epilepsy nurses to work in this field? (C) 2000 BEA Trading Ltd.