Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What happens next? (steps in the assessment process) 

• Information gathering: on receiving a referral, we gather information from parents, carers, schools and settings, as well as from any other key professionals, by using standardised questionnaires.
• Observations of child/young person: sometimes an objective ADHD test, such as a Quantitative Behavioural (QB) test, sometimes at the child/young person's shoool or education setting may be required as part of the assessment.
• Review: The above information is then reviewed to make a clinical decision as to whether the diagnosis of ADHD is met or not.

• From when the team first receives a referral, it can take up to 12 months for a decision to be made as to whether your child has ADHD or not, please be aware, this is subject to change.

• ADHD assessments are done by ADHD Clinical Nurse Specialists working together with Community Paediatricians and, occasionally, other professionals, such as Clinical Psychologists and Educational Psychologists.

• You will only be offered a future follow up appointment if deemed clinically necessary.  The Nurse may signpost you to other services or provide you with the relevant information you require.
  

• You may be discharged from our service for more appropriate and tailored care, this will always be discussed with you.

If the child is diagnosed with ADHD,  the ADHD Clinical Nurse Specialist Team (who consist of Registered Nurses and Administrators) will then meet with the child and family for a first appointment.

Please be aware

It is very important to us that confidentiality and consent are respected at all times. Please ensure that consent is obtained from the child’s parent/carer prior to its submission – you can state that consent has been obtained on the form.

*We do not accept referrals directly from parents/carers. Please approach your GP, school or other professional for help if you feel your child is showing symptoms suggestive of ADHD*

If you are waiting for a new or a follow up appointment and you are concerned about your child’s health please contact your GP, call 111 or 999 if an emergency.

Feedback

‘I would like to say how comfortable the ADHD nurse made us feel throughout. She was very interested to know the history of *** regarding home, school, medication, EHCP etc. She listened intently and gave her views and advice very attentively.'
Parent of service user.