Learning disability in the accident and emergency department

Generally, people with learning disabilities now live in community settings and use generic health services. Those who develop behavioural or psychiatric disturbances may be taken to a hospital accident and emergency (A&E) department. An A&E visit can be the starting point of a comprehensive assessment of these disturbances. This article provides a framework for the initial assessment, management and disposition of patients with learning disabilities and behavioural disturbance presenting to an A&E department.