Audit of clinicians' approach to patients' driving status in a dementia day hospital setting

Abstract

Aims and MethodTo examine whether driving is discussed with patients attending a specialist day hospital for dementia and whether appropriate action is taken. Patients' notes were reviewed for evidence of such discussion. A questionnaire was implemented before the audit was repeated 6 months later.ResultsDuring the first cycle 44 patients' notes were assessed and 38 were assessed on repeat audit. The documentation of discussions regarding driving increased from 23 to 95% of notes following implementation of the questionnaire.Clinical ImplicationsBy discussing driving status, important legal, insurance and safety issues can be addressed. Routine use of a simple questionnaire dramatically improved the likelihood of such discussion. These findings apply for all conditions requiring Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency notification.