114 In safe hands: feasibility testing of an assessment instrument to identify risk factors associated with children and young people with learning disability and/or autism spectrum condition being in hospital. (23rd February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sipanoun, Pippa; Oulton, Kate; Gibson, Faith; Pepper, Lucy; Nightingale, Ruth; Bray, Lucy; Carr, Lucinda; Kiernan, Joann; Tuffrey-Wijne, Irene; Wray, Jo
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 108(2023)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A42
• Page End: A43
• Publication Date: 2023-02-23
• Subjects: Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920005
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-gosh.114
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-9888

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Inequities exist in service provision for hospitalised children and young people (CYP) with learning disability (LD) and/or autism spectrum condition (ASC), with risks that need mitigating, to promote safety and improve the experiences of this patient population and their families. Aim: The overall aim of the In Safe Hands study was to develop a risk assessment instrument to identify risk factors associated with CYP with LD and/or ASC being in hospital and to enable the identification and delivery of reasonable adjustments that meet the needs of this complex patient population. This presentation aims to present feasibility testing of the instrument. Methods: Feasibility sessions were conducted via zoom and facilitated by a nurse. The nurse shared the instrument virtually, enabling the parent to view the content and fully participate in the process of assessing their child's needs. The identification of suitable reasonable adjustments for each specific need were discussed in partnership with the parent. Following the feasibility session, each participant was interviewed via zoom using an assessment framework which included questions relating to use and understanding of the instrument, to gain feedback about the session. Results and Conclusions: Parents ( n =4) of children with LD and/or ASC and nurses ( n =3) tested the feasibility of the instrument. The feasibility sessions ranged from 1 hour 12 minutes to 1 hour 37 minutes. Findings demonstrated positivity towards the instrument's intended use, but both participant groups identified that the amount of time required to complete the instrument was lengthy, offering suggestions to streamline its design and increase usability. The individuality and uniqueness of each child's needs was highlighted. Participants perceived that the instrument will help to raise awareness of what CYP with LD and/or ASC require when hospitalised, however recognition of each individual's unique needs was deemed essential.