Objective: This is a qualitative analysis in the establishment of DBSNA for specialist nurses working in neuromodulation in the UK.

Background: Surgical movement disorder nurses play a pivotal role in the key centres in the UK. They exercise an advanced level of practice in managing DBS patients from paediatric to adult care.

Methods: The objectives and progress of the current projects of the association were gathered and reviewed by the association’s committee members.

Results: Since the inception of DBSNA in 2014, the objectives of the association are founded on: Education, Clinical Practice, Research and Website development. DBSNA’s annual conference provides an opportunity for education, networking and sharing best practice and experience for all members. This year’s conference welcomes nurses from European centres and allied professionals. The association is working to standardize assessments and information materials for DBS patients. A practice competency booklet is developed based on National Health Service (NHS) knowledge, skills framework (KSF) which will ensure fitness for practice in the management of DBS patients. Moreover, it will standardize level of practice and competence in developing pathways to recognise those qualified as ‘advance practitioners’ and to support Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) revalidation process. The ‘Role of Surgical Movement Disorder Specialist’ booklet is being updated, which will serve as guide for nurses and for centres aiming to develop specialists nursing roles in DBS. This year’s conference highlights research projects led by nurses through poster exhibits and presentation. The association website is still under development due to financial restraints. The website is aimed to provide a platform for nurses to communicate, share best practice and discuss new research publications.

Conclusions: DBSNA has provided a vital platform for education, development of clinical practice, research and recognizes specialist nurses’ contribution in the field of neuromodulation. They have developed tools to standardize clinical practice in maintaining the quality of care for DBS patients from paediatric patients to adult. They are developing ways to standardize professional advancements. And despite minor difficulties, the association continues to grow and has recently gained recognition from European nurses and allied professionals.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/the-establishment-of-deep-brain-stimulation-nurse-association-dbsna-in-united-kingdom-uk/