Local Mencap Doncaster
Traffic Light Hospital Assessment
How does the Traffic Light Hospital Assessment (TLA) work?
Learning disabled people in Doncaster, who go into hospital for planned or emergency stay now have an easy way of informing doctors and nurses of their essential and important needs, thanks to a new Traffic Light Hospital Assessment(TLA).
The TLA has been introduced by Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) for people who use learning disability services, to help them when they visit other NHS hospital services.
“The Traffic Light Assessment” was introduced in Doncaster by Glynis Smith, who has now retired. It has recently been revised by the new acute liaison nurse, Rebecca Knapton. You can complete the form yourself with the help of the people who know you really before well before going into hospital, or upon admission. It provides staff on hospital wards and departments with immediate important information at first point of contact, reducing risk and giving them more time to spend with you instead of having to read through previous medical notes, which can be very large files. It identifies what is essential and important to people’s health as well as their likes and dislikes.
If you need any further information please contact one of the Health Action team or email: dbth.learningdisabilitiesteam@nhs.net
RED Rating
For the things people must know, such as GP and carer contact details, medical conditions, medication and allergies.
AMBER Rating
For important issues like how the person communicates and shares information, their eating and drinking preferences, as well as their need for help in moving around and taking medication.
GREEN Rating
For likes, dislikes, hobbies and personal preferences. Glynis added: “Environments, physical touch and routines are very important to learning disabled people”.
Health Action Team
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