Role of Liaison Nurses in improving communication

Abstract

This article describes a survey of the views of clients, carers and hospital staff about the learning disability liaison nurse role in an acute hospital in the south of England. The survey found that the service benefits people with learning disabilities, particularly during admission, as well as their families and carers. Good communication is vital for effective health provision, however, and if communication barriers associated with learning disability are not overcome, clients can receive poor care. The positive evaluation of the liaison nurse role discussed in this article confirms the need for their presence in acute hospital and similar settings to improve communication and collaboration between clients, families, carers, doctors and ward staff