Admiral Nurses are specialist Mental Health Nurses working in the community to support carers (of all ages) of people suffering from dementia. Their nursing objectives address the following:
- Assessment of the physical and mental health needs of the carer
- Assessment of the health needs of the person with dementia
- Facilitating the understanding of the carer about treatment, symptoms and professional support available for the person with dementia
- Arranging access to appropriate practical assistance
- Providing emotional support for the carer
They have a dual role encompassing:
- Casework with individual carers
- Consultancy and training for professionals working in dementia
Admiral Nurses work with carers throughout the duration of the illness and beyond where appropriate, e.g. bereavement counselling following the death of the person with dementia. Early intervention, incorporating health promotion, helps to prevent the development or worsening of some of the carer's problems. This, in turn, benefits the person with dementia. Admiral nurses aim to respond to the varying needs of the carers over a period of time.
Referral criteria include:
- A likely diagnosis of dementia
- That the person who is suffering from dementia must be living within the appropriate catchment area
- If A&B are fulfilled, the carer is eligible to receive the services of the Admiral Nurses even if s/he lives outside the catchment area
There is an open referral system, so carers may self-refer. Admiral Nurses focus mainly on the carer as the client.