Learning disabilities and mental health : a nursing perspective

Learning disability and mental health -- Nature, prevalence and manifestation of dual diagnosis -- Assessment and diagnosis -- Needs assessment -- Learning disability nursing -- Psychopharmacological approaches and ECT -- Psychosocial interventions -- Professional and legal issues -- Service perspectives.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

""Learning Disabilities and Mental Health: A Nursing Perspective"" provides an evidence-based perspective on care of individuals with learning disabilities and mental health problems. Around 30 per cent to 40 per cent of people with learning disabilities will experience mental health disorders during their lives. Many learning disability nurses and a significant number of mental health nurses are in daily contact with this group, and their complex needs are not often well understood. This title examines current theory and practice in supporting people with learning disabilities and additional mental health needs. It evaluates the learning disability nursing contribution to care. It identifies the key knowledge and skills required by learning disability and mental health nurses and other health care professionals. It addresses key issues in contemporary practice. It explores assessment of needs in order to provide needs-led services"