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The Nurse's Role in Addressing Unmet Treatment and Management Needs of Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: D elphi‐Based Recommendations
Author(s) -
Cottrell Jane E. D.,
Jonas Monique,
Bergsten Ulrika,
Blaas Etienne,
Torre Aboki Jenny,
Howse Catriona,
Korandova Jana,
Löfman Päivi,
Logtenberg Carin,
Lupton Terri,
Mallon Catherine,
Oliver Susan,
Pickles David,
Bulinckx Leeanna
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
international journal of nursing knowledge
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.545
H-Index - 23
eISSN - 2047-3095
pISSN - 2047-3087
DOI - 10.1111/j.2047-3095.2013.01231.x
Subject(s) - medicine , rheumatoid arthritis , nursing , multidisciplinary approach , nursing practice , family medicine , social science , sociology
Purpose Evaluate nurse's role in management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ). Methods Modified D elphi with two rounds of questionnaires, followed by in‐person meeting. International group of 12 nurses experienced with RA patients receiving biologic therapy. Findings Nurses often spend more time with patients than doctors do. Nurse is in unique position to explore patient needs; educate about treatment, administration, product storage, and self‐injection technique; determine readiness for and understanding of treatment; monitor safety and progress; and coordinate care within multidisciplinary setting. Conclusions Nurse's role is complex and vitally important to optimal RA patient care. Additional nurse involvement may address unmet needs. Implications for nursing practice Rheumatology nurses can address unmet patient needs by expanding current roles and by adopting additional functions.