Main description:

A new edition of an established research-based text on one of the fastest growing topics in nursing: nurses dealing with this complex subject need to be kept up to date and this book written by a team of expert rheumatology nurses fills that role. The book's emphasis is on addressing the patients' problems, assessing the effects of the disease both on the body and psychologically and suggesting treatments best suited to the individual patient. It encourages nurses to work in partnership with the patients and their carers, adopting a holistic approach to care.* Edited by an acknowledged international expert in the development of the specialty* Covers the needs of all nurses involved with rheumatology patients both in hospital and at home* Research-based and completely updated to include the latest developments in treatments available

Contents:

SECTION 1 SETTING THE SCENE. 1 The Principles, Practice and Evolution of Rheumatology Nursing (Sarah Ryan and Jackie Hill). 2 The Musculoskeletal System and the Rheumatic Diseases (Valerie Arthur and Jackie Hill). 3 The Immune System and Rheumatic Disease (Susan Oliver). 4 Biochemical, Haematological and Clinical Assessments in the Rheumatic Diseases (Jackie Hill). SECTION 2 ADDRESSING THE PATIENT'S PROBLEMS. 5 The Psychological Aspects of Rheumatic Disease (Sarah Ryan). 6 The Effects of Rheumatic Disease on Body Image and Sexuality (Jackie Hill). 7 The Social Implications of Rheumatic Disease (Sarah Ryan). 8 Pain and Stiffness (Jackie Hill). 9 Fatigue and Sleep (Christine White). 10 The Skin and Nutrition (Naomi Reay, Sally Smith and Jill Byrne). SECTION 3 THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS. 11 Multidisciplinary Team Care of the Rheumatic Patient (Pauline Fitzgerald). 12 Medications in the Rheumatic Diseases (Jo White and Domini Bryer). 13 Complementary Interventions (Anne Cawthorn and Peter Mackereth). 14 Surgical Interventions (Maureen Cox). 15 Patient Education (Jackie Hill). SECTION 4 PRIMARY AND PAEDIATRIC CARE. 16 Seamless Primary and Secondary Care (Mandy Edwards). 17 Paediatric Care (Gill Jackson). Index.