Preparing the advanced practitioner in learning disabilities nursing

This paper aims to describe the practical, therapeutic and educational dimensions of professional preparation in the field of Learning Disabilities Nursing. Through an exploration of the primary, secondary and tertiary dimensions of care, the authors identify the range of skills and competencies which they consider necessary for the achievement of advanced practice in this specialist field. Arguments are proposed which demonstrate the essential and continuing role of the nurse through a consolidation of the three dimensions of care. In so doing, an educational foundation for advanced practice which enables the nurse to work effectively within present and future health and social care initiatives is proposed.