Sources of evidence
The claimant and / or carer should be able to provide the information required to accurately assess mobility and care needs. However, if further details are needed the General Practitioner, Consultant or Specialist Scleroderma / Rheumatology nurse is an appropriate source of information.
All treatment is based on presenting symptoms. Typically the diagnosis will be made and the care will be managed by a Rheumatologist and team, but other specialists may well be involved, depending on what specific areas of the body are affected. A Dermatologist, Cardiologist, Renal Physician, Respiratory Physician and/ or Gastroenterologist may be involved.
The Specialist Nurse
Specialist nurses are hospital based in scleroderma / rheumatology units to offer a holistic approach to care. These nurses work to meet the medical and psychological needs of the patients. Their roles comprise mainly:
- Clinical Work (monitoring clinical condition and medication)
- Education of patients & health professionals
- Patient advocacy & support
- Liaison & Coordination of care (referral to appropriate specialist for follow up care: occupational therapist, gastroenterologist, pulmonary physician, renal physicians, mental health professionals etc)
- Research & audit
Since scleroderma is so variable, they provide personalised care plans and reassessment especially during times of rapid deterioration. They provide vital support in coping with this chronic illness and are extremely important for the well being of scleroderma patients.
Amended November 2008
