ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the key considerations for the community nurse when working with people with long-term conditions (LTCs), their carers and their families. The themes raised in this chapter focus specifically on the delivery of person-centred and needs-based care, and include performing assessment, handling case management, supporting self-care, promoting behaviour change, and addressing issues of vulnerability. Understandably, the management of LTCs has a major impact on health and social care resources across the United Kingdom. It is estimated that 70% of the money spent in England on health and social care is for caring for people who have LTCs. The impact of LTCs is also growing in Wales. One-third of the adult population, an estimated 800,000 people, report having at least one LTC, such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or coronary heart disease (CHD). The focus on managing LTCs is also reflected in policies and strategies in other countries of the United Kingdom.
