BTS Clinical Statement on the prevention and management of community-acquired pneumonia in people with learning disability
Julian Legg, Jamie-Leigh Allen, Morag Andrew, Charlotte Annesley, Michelle Chatwin, Hannah Crawford, Joanna Elverson, Julian Forton, Kate Oulton, Kate Renton, Alison Tavaré, Hilary Tedd, A. John Simpson
Abstract
This BTS Clinical Statement addresses the risk assessment, prevention and management of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in people with a learning disability of all ages. Each section is summarised with key clinical practice points. The recommendations made are based on a comprehensive review of the published evidence, where available and pertinent, but are predominantly based on expert opinion aimed at providing useful pragmatic guidance.<br/>Learning disability is the preferred term used in the UK to refer to individuals who have ‘significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information, to learn new skills’ and a ‘reduced ability to cope independently which starts before adulthood with lasting effects on development’. Individuals with learning disability represent a widely heterogeneous group of people and can be associated<br/>with a broad range of primary diagnoses and comorbidities.