Activities of intellectual disability clinical specialists in Ireland.

Purpose/Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the contribution of Irish intellectual disability clinical nurse specialists (ID CNSs) to service delivery.Design:A non-experimental descriptive design was selected to survey ID CNSs presently working in Ireland. The questionnaire was developed based on focus group interviews, available literature, and expert panel views.Methods:Ethical approval and access were granted to all ID CNSs in Ireland. Thirty-two responded (33.68%response rate) from all work areas (voluntary organizations or health service executive) practicingwithin residential, community, or school services. Respondents were surveyed across a range of areas (demographic details and support to client, staff, family, organization, community, otheragencies, and professional development).Results:Findings identify that ID CNSs are active in all aspects of their roles as clinical specialist, educator, communicator, researcher, change agent, and leader, thus supporting person-centered care and improving service delivery.Conclusions:To meet changing healthcare demands, promote person-centered care, and improve service delivery, the CNS role in ID should be developed and supported. The findingsmerit a further study on ID CNS role activity, possible variables influencing role activity, and team members’ views.