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Nursing Manual The "Fatal Four": Specific risks for people with developmental disabilities There are four major health issues that are more common in people with developmental disabilities and cause both morbidity and mortality. They are frequently referred to as the "fatal four": aspiration, dehydration, constipation and epileptic seizures.Aspiration, dehydration, and constipation may be insidious conditions that often go unrecognized until they cause a major illness and/or even death. Many of the symptoms of these conditions are subtle and persons with disabilities may not be able to express their discomfort or give indications that they are not feeling well. If a person has epileptic seizures, it is the suddenness and the unpredictability of this disorder that places the person at risk. Hospitalizations and/or death may be caused by injury, aspiration, drowning, or status epilepticus. Astuteness of the staff and careful monitoring can greatly minimize the risks and ensure timely interventions. The following information will help the RN identify persons that have "fatal four" risks and help guide them in their assessment, plan of care and protocols. |
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