It has been demonstrated that the PDNS can reduce the need for hospital admissions, outpatient appointments and GP consultations, as well as improve clinical outcomes and well-being for people with Parkinson's and their carers.

The PDNS role is one of clinical expert. He/she will have the ability to:

• Work as a member of the multidisciplinary team caring for people with Parkinson's
• Assess, plan, implement, review and document individualised care plans for people with Parkinson's at all stages of the disease
• Create a service that is accessible and responsive to the needs of people with Parkinson's and their families
• Create a service that is appropriate for local commissioning groups, NHS trusts, community and social care staff
• Provide support and advice to healthcare professionals, people with Parkinson's and their families
• Initiate or co-operate in research
• Facilitate the development of evidence based practice in PD nursing

The PDNS undertakes several of the Chief Nursing Officers 1 0 key roles for nursing.
A minimum of 240 PDNS are needed in the UK.

Within the new career framework for nurses, the post of the PDNS should be offered to applicants at Grade Ill Senior Registered Practitioner or, until this structure is introduced, at a minimum of Grade G, upgrading to Grade H with increasing experience and responsibilities.

All PDNS should have a flexible Personal Development Plan, linked to performance appraisal, which is patient centred and reflects individual training needs as well as wider local and national service objectives

Clear lines of professional nursing accountability and performance management need to be made explicit in job descriptions.

The PDNS should have access to clinical supervision.

PDNS should have adequate resources to undertake their work. This includes suitable office accommodation, telephone and answering machine, computer with lnternet access and secretarial support.

The work of the PDNS should be the subject of continuing audit and assessment of outcomes, to complement local business plans and contribute to local service developments of care for people with Parkinson's.Next