267 Survey of knowledge and medications Management of Patients with Parkinson’s Disease among non- consultant hospital doctors

Abstract

Abstract Background Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative movement disorder. is the second most common neurodegenerative condition after Alzheimer Disease. The incidence is 1–2:1000 of the general population and 1:100 of the over 80’s, therefore estimating that there are approximately 12,000 people living with Parkinson’s in Ireland. Providing care services and best management for Parkinson’s disease patients needs to be ensured through training staff and continuously auditing the service to meet international standards and patient satisfaction. Methods This study was conducted using an anonymous online survey completed by hospital doctors from all levels and specialties of Non-Consultant Hospital Doctors (NCHD) in a tertiary hospital. The survey contained two sections, the first asked questions on confidence and how commonly NCHD manage patients with Parkinson’s Disease. The second section contained questions to assess general knowledge on medications. Results Of the 40 respondents of non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHD) 50% were SHOs, 30% Interns 20% Registrars. 38% reported to lack confidence in managing patients with Parkinson’s and 50% somewhat confident and only 12% were confident. 77% weren’t familiar with medication side effect and 90% weren’t aware about rescue medications. 82% weren’t familiar with conversion methods. 95% felt that they needed more training. Conclusion Parkinson’s disease patients are commonly admitted to hospitals under medical and surgical teams, and ensuring every patient gets the best management should be our goal. More training is required among hospital doctors, in addition to other continuous easily accessible supportive materials, such as information leaflets, links to be included into hospital’s mobile phone application, Parkinson’s nurse specialist as a point of contact, and regular education.