ABSTRACT

The third set of health problems is more frequently seen in district general hospitals. Diseases in this broad category are similar to those that affect the general population. Common examples are serious conditions such as chest infections and fractured limbs resulting from injury, which usually need inpatient care. These situations can lead to particular problems for people with a learning disability, because they may not understand what is happening to them and why they have had to leave home and be cared for by unfamiliar people. This could lead to apprehension and lack of cooperation with treatment. Hospital staff are not usually accustomed to dealing with people with a learning disability. They can find it difficult to set aside enough time to communicate effectively and explain what is going on, and they may also find it difficult to explain the reasons for blood tests and other investigations.