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Exploring professional decision making in relation to safeguarding: A grounded theory study of social workers and community nurses in community learning (intellectual) disability teams in wales
Author(s) -
Hodges Zoe,
Northway Ruth
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1468-3148
pISSN - 1360-2322
DOI - 10.1111/jar.12541
Subject(s) - grounded theory , safeguarding , intellectual disability , psychology , competence (human resources) , learning disability , situational ethics , qualitative research , social psychology , public relations , developmental psychology , nursing , medicine , sociology , political science , psychiatry , social science
Background People with intellectual disabilities are at increased risk of abuse which may not always be responded to appropriately. This study therefore sought to explore how nurses and social workers make decisions when safeguarding adults with intellectual disabilities. Method A situational analysis grounded theory study. Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with social workers ( n = 16) and community nurses ( n = 9) working in Community Learning (Intellectual) Disability Teams in Wales. Data were transcribed and analysed thematically and cartographically in keeping with situational analysis. Results Four key themes emerged: The official line; Expectation and perception; Non‐vulnerable adult process options; Confidence and competence. Sites of silence were also identified: not making a decision, not asking further questions, preserving family relationships and the individual with intellectual disabilities. Conclusion Decision making in relation to safeguarding adults with intellectual disabilities is a complex process, influenced by many factors and in which discretion is exercised by professionals.