The District Nursing Service: People’s experiences of using the service in Somerset

Recommendations

1. It is clear throughout the experiences we gathered that the current service provided by Somerset District Nurses is very well received by patients, their carers, and family members. Maintaining and building on this level of service should be at the heart of any proposed changes to the DNS.
2. Increasing the hours of service, so that routine visits can take place during weekends and evenings where appropriate, would be beneficial for both service users and staff. Consideration into the suitability of the appointment day/time must be given on an individual basis to maintain equal access for all.
3. The data suggests that, at present, any move to digital appointments would need to be sympathetic of those who are digitally excluded, such as those who do not have an internet connection or a device for accessing the internet.
4. Investigate the possibility of introducing a time slot system such as AM or PM where capacity allows, this would be especially useful for patients with memory loss or mental confusion.
5. Improving continuity of care by providing a consistent nurse, or group of nurses, for long term service users and those with cognitive impairment, should be given significant consideration.