Service innovations: Risk assessment in learning disability

Abstract

Aims and method. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the care programme approach (CPA) in adults with learning disabilities in a specialist treatment unit by auditing all in-patient records over a 6-month period. A multidisciplinary team set CPA standards. Staff on the unit completed questionnaires about patients, including CPA screening and risk assessment/management, and carers completed questionnaires about their perceptions of risk and information sharing. Results. Of the 15 patients whose records were reviewed, 13 had CPA screening on admission and 12 on discharge. Before discharge, 9 patients had a CPA planning meeting and only 4 patients had a demonstrable risk management plan. Carers of 9 patients perceived that information was shared. Clinical implications. Major deficiencies identified in risk assessment and management and in information sharing may potentially jeopardise successful treatment and after-care.