Down syndrome: caring holistically in primary health care

All primary health care should be underpinned with a firm theoretical knowledge. The holistic management of Down syndrome patients should be an integral part of this knowledge base. The application of this knowledge should ideally encompass a positive approach to empowering patients to lead healthy, active and normal lives. This article highlights a basic documentation of what 'Down syndrome' is. The article gives community nursing staff the opportunity to refresh their knowledge of the condition, then encourages critical reflection on professional practice within primary care, with the intention of raising skill and awareness for the holistic management of patients with Down syndrome.