Abstract

The results of the second phase of a research study into the perceived roleof the Parkinson’s disease (PD) nurse specialist in an area health board arepresented and discussed in this article.Aim: The aim of the second phase of the study was to further clarify therole of the PD nurse specialist and make recommendations for enhancingthe role and improving services to those with PD and their families.Method: Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were employed todetermine the perceptions of the role of the PD nurse specialist. Onehundred people with PD and 100 carers were sent questionnaires relating todifferent aspects of the role of the PD nurse specialist. Eight carers and 8people with PD were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires.Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitativedata analysed for emerging themes and concepts.Findings: The results illustrate the pivotal role that the PD nurse specialisthas in enabling people with PD and their carers to live with the condition.Results are used to develop recommendations for future development ofthe role.