A Case Report for Diagnosing Anxiety in People With Intellectual Disability: The Role of Nurses1 in the Application of a Multidimensional Diagnostic Guideline

Abstract

The purpose of this article is the presentation of a multidimensional guideline for the diagnosis of anxiety and anxiety-related behavior problems in people with intellectual disability (ID), with a substantial role for the nurse in this diagnostic process. The guideline is illustrated by a case report of a woman with ID with severe problems. It appears that a multidimensional diagnostic approach involving multidisciplinary team efforts can result in a more accurate diagnosis and improved subsequent treatment. Nurses should be engaged in the diagnostic process because of their ability to make direct observations and to actively participate in carrying out all parts of the guideline.