Work

Exploring stakeholder perspectives on antipsychotic use for challenging behaviours in intellectual disabilities using a World Café approach

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: AIMS: Adults with intellectual disability frequently experience challenging behaviours and are prescribed antipsychotics (AP). Management of challenging behaviours remains controversial and AP use is often based on low-quality evidence. Our study explores the development of educational resources with healthcare workers and paid carers regarding the use of AP. METHOD: A mixed-methods approach utilised a "World Café Event". Thematic analysis and descriptive analysis were conducted. RESULTS: Participants reported the importance of training that explores the balancing of the risks and benefits of AP use and the setting of a pluralistic approach towards treatment. We identified the need for further education of caregivers to improve confidence in AP prescribing to facilitate correct protocols and dose tapering where possible. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Engaging mixed disciplines to discuss medication safety is feasible using a World Café approach and useful to create shared values, identify knowledge gaps and promote change via a social movement.

Source: Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability

DOI: 10.3109/13668250.2025.2499669

Authors: Aoibhin McCool, Gurjot Brar, Owen Doody, Drona Sharma, Marie Kehoe, Dervla Kelly

Institutions: University of Limerick, Health Service Executive

Language: English

Topic: Down syndrome and intellectual disability research

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: Health Service Executive, University of Limerick, Irish Research Council