Audit of patients with intellectual disabilities accessing a specialist neuropsychiatry service for epilepsy management

Abstract

Introduction

Epilepsy is a frequent co-morbidity in patients with intellectual disabilities, some of whom require specialist services. The National institute for health and care excellence (NICE) has recommended that there should be equity of access to high quality of care regardless of the existence of a diagnosis of intellectual disability.

Objectives

To observe current practice with regards to NICE guidelines for epilepsy care in patients with intellectual disability.

Aims

To identify the level of compliance with NICE guidelines and provide evidence which may inform care planning processes.

Methods

A retrospective review of the electronic and paper-based records of a total sample of intellectually disabled patients who accessed a specialist neuropsychiatry service for the management of epilepsy during a six-month period was carried out.

Results

The records of 21 patients whose ages ranged from 20 to 58 years were audited. The waiting period ranged from 4 weeks to 46 weeks. There was evidence of Carer involvement in the management of 100% of the patients and seizure improvement since referral was documented in 66%. Non- medication treatment was offered in 67% of cases. Evidence of special considerations in view of patient's intellectual disability was recorded in 24%, best interest considerations in 24% and capacity assessment in 19%.

Conclusions

There is a significant improvement in the symptoms of 66% of patients in this audit. However there is room for improvement and a more specific plan for patients with intellectual disabilities should facilitate this.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.