P02-305 - Audit of the resettlement process: Mallow ward, Muckamore Abbey Hospital

Abstract

In accordance with The UN Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons, the Bamford Review of Mental Health and Learning Disability of Northern Ireland emphasized the need to establish a new service model for people with learning disability, focusing on their integration in the community. Following the Government's Action plan, guidelines were developed to guide the process of resettlement.This study looked at how well the standards have been met in resettling patients from Mallow ward, the Children’s Learning Disability Unit of Muckamore Abbey Hospital, Antrim, Northern Ireland, given the cost implications of resettling long-stay patients and the impact on the service users.Objectives1. To evaluate the resettlement process2. To identify areas needing developmentMethodsIn January 2010 we identified 14 children admitted between November 2008 (guideline implementation) and March 2009 (ministerial target date). Data collection involved review of case notes and interviewing residential Care managers.ResultsThe admission dates of the children (aged 13 – 19) ranged between March 2003 and March 2009. 11 (79%) children had been resettled in the community. Standards were achieved 100% in several domains including risks assessments, information sharing and patient/carer involvement. 5 (45%) children were discharged within 4 weeks of trial resettlement. Common problems included aggression, seizures, constipation and encopresis. The feedbacks from current placements were mostly positive.DiscussionCompliance with standards ensured smooth resettlement. 45% discharged within 4 weeks of trial resettlement reflects the appropriate focus on patient safety rather than targets. Limited resources impacted on delayed discharge.