BTS Clinical Statement on the prevention and management of community-acquired pneumonia in people with learning disability

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.