Paediatric Eating Disorder Program – 3 years on, where to next?
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Presenter: Mrs Sandy Bridgland1
1Paediatric Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park , Australia
Date of presentation: 27th October 2016
Abstract
Aim
In 2012 Paediatric nurses noted a marked increase in the number of patients admitted with an eating disorder. Patients admitted were medically unstable requiring nutritional rescue with nasogastric feeding before being discharged home once at target weight, these patients had a length of stay up to 6-12 weeks.
Method
Advice and information was obtained from other units to determine best practice in managing these patients. The unit adopted the Maudsley Family Based Treatment model. The paediatric Eating Disorder program commenced February 2013, a multi D team was formed, which meets twice weekly to discuss the progress and plan for discharge of each patient.
The Program follows a level system – from medical stabilisation on admission, with patients’ progressing through the levels in a strict planned management program.
Family meetings are held weekly, progress is discussed and a plan for discharge is made. Written parent and patient information is provided to the family on admission, an explanation of the program occurs as soon as possible after admission by a team member.
Results
Average length of stay is now 2-3 weeks. Readmission rate has reduced by 80%
Conclusions
A paediatric eating disorder program was initiated due to increased demand, during the last 3 years it has developed with marked improvement to the care of these challenging patients. It is hoped the program will continue to develop incorporating improved outpatient services to reduce admissions further and increase awareness in the community.