A Bit  About the PDNSA

The PDNSA was formed in 1999. It acts as a national resource and network for nurses to share knowledge, expertise and best practice about Parkinson's Disease and its management.

A newsletter is produced on a regular basis called "Transmitter" which is available for Parkinson's Disease Nurse Specialists (PDNS) and those with an interest in Parkinson's Disease.

The Association also organises a annual conference where issues pertinent to the management of Parkinson's Disease and the role of the PDNS are discussed.

In 2000 the Association carried out a survey to assess the views of PDNSs regarding nurse prescribing.

In 2001 the PDNSA contributed to a national Department of Health symposium to assess the contribution of Neurology Nurse Specialists in supporting people with chronic and long term neurological diseases. Following this event the Health Secretary Alan Milburn, announced that long term neurological conditions would have a national service framework by 2004.

The Chair of the PDNSA represents the Association at the Parkinson's Disease Society Nurse Development Committee.

The Association continues to play a vital role in influencing policy and practice both nationally and internationally. It has links with a variety of other organisations such as the Joint Committee of Professional Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting Associations (JCPNMVHA), the International Steering Committee of Movement Disorder Nursing Societies and Neuroalliance. These links provide a forum for the discussion of professional issues where appropriate action can be taken to influence the development of nursing practice.

The most important role of the PDNSA is that it represents a body of Parkinson's Disease Nurse Specialists and as such has the power to influence change.

 Past Achievements

2006

• Forged links with the British Geriatric Society and PD Specialist Interest Group

2005

• Worked with the RCN and PDS to produce a document on bench marking, continence and bowel care

2004 - 2005

• Influenced the NFS for long term conditions
• Worked closely with the RCN and PDS to produce the Nurse Competency Document
• Acted a key stake holder for the development of the NICE Guidelines

2004

• Represented PD nursing on the nurses neurological network
• Improved communication with regional groups via the PDNSA report

2003

Between 2003 and 2006 The PDNSA worked in collaboration with Healthy Alliance and the PD Society to produce the following documents:

• Mentorship Guidelines
• Telephone Guidelines
• CD Rom Teaching pack
• Mardeno Atlas
• Awareness posters for hospitals
• New PD Nurse pack
• Continued involvement in induction programmes

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