Drug therapy management is a key topic for all nurses caring for patients with a rheumatologic condition. With nurses now required to prescribe, administer, monitor and review medication, this volume will help nurses develop their knowledge, skills and self-confidence to provide these services, while also advising on the benefits and risks of medication. This much-awaited second edition has been revised to address the changing face of clinical practice and distinct advances in this field, providing vital information on the latest drug treatments such as biological agents that suppress the disease and initiate remission, it will also advise on the use of selective and non-steroidal inflammatory drugs. Content is organised into comprehensive sections, with succinct chapters that discuss: Rheumatologic conditions Drug therapy The role of the nurse Patient education and adherence to drug therapy. In addition, new material explores biologic therapies; management of non-steroidal drugs; nurse prescribing; management of chronic pain; and case studies to inform clinical decision-making regarding drug therapy.

This is a core text for rheumatology nurses that gives a comprehensive review of rheumatology nursing skills and issues. Covering disease states, pathology and diagnosis, psychological and social issues, medications and treatment, symptoms and management, and patient education, this book defines the nursing role with patients who have these common ailments.

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

Rheumatic diseases are the most frequent self-reported, long-standing conditions in the UK and there is an increasing demand for rheumatology services in both the hospital and community based environments. It is therefore essential that the primary health care team have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide a high quality service. This very practical book covers all aspects of caring for people with rheumatic diseases. It discusses the physiological and psychological aspects of the diseases, examines drug therapy and drug monitoring and looks at the varied ways in which the professional can help the client.

Gone are the days when the physician could act as God, the orthopaedic surgeon as the Lord God and the nurses as minister ing angels. The concept of a team approach with each discipline supplying special yet overlapping skills is accepted in principle, although not always in practice. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists resist integration of their training among the hierarchy; however, on the ground, these remedial therapists often do each other's jobs with remarkable amity. Elsewhere I have discussed whether we need multipurpose professionals or multiprofessional persons (Wright 1982). At Leeds the close collaboration that exists between rheumatol ogists and non-medically qualified professionals has resulted in a productive Bioengineering Group for the Study of Human Joints, a Clinical Pharmacology Unit of international renown and a Rehabilitation Unit that consistently produces bricks without straw. One aspect of this combined approach to patient care has been the development of the discipline of clinical nurse metrology (Bird et al. 1980). Skilled nursing sisters have worked in this capacity for a decade in Leeds. Their contribution has not only enhanced the reliability of the results of clinical trials in which they have been engaged, but it has been highly s;ost effective and greatly appreciated by patients. It has also measurably improved our patient education programme. Moreover, the posts have provided considerable job satisfaction. This book arises from the expertise gained during these pioneer years.

This book provides a comprehensive and practical overview of the knowledge required for the assessment and management of the older adult with arthritis and other rheumatological conditions. This book equips nurses and allied health professionals with the knowledge and skills to undertake a comprehensive holistic assessment to identify the physical, psychological and social impact of living with arthritis. It informs them on osteoarthritis, a leading cause of pain and disability in 10-15% of all adults over the age of 60. Polymyalgia rheumatic can prove challenging for the clinician to manage, whilst rheumatoid arthritis and gout, (two other inflammatory conditions) also have a substantial global burden. This book informs nurses and allied health professionals on to manage these conditions, as well as the symptoms of fatigue, pain and mood and how patients can be supported to engage in Self-Management. The pharmacological and non pharmacological approach to management is discussed in depth including the role of medications and exercise. The impact of arthritis on a person’s ability to engage in their day to day activities and social participation is also explored.

Review pharmacology of Rheumatology drugs for board preparation and patient care! Whether you are starting your Rheumatology fellowship, finishing training, or are already an attending in academics or private practice, this will be a useful book for board preparation, clinical practice, and also for patient counseling. Up to date on the latest FDA-approved agents.