Recent items - Journal of Neuroscience Nursing - Multiple Sclerosis
Impact of Warm Compresses on Local Injection-Site Reactions with Self-Administered Glatiramer Acetate
22/09/2009 14:44
: Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) report a number of adverse events related to immunomodulator injections, including local injection-site reactions (LISRs). Reactions characterized by pain, swelling, redness, or inflammation have been experienced by patients who self-inject glatiramer acetate, interferon beta-1b, or interferon beta-1a. Although these reactions rarely are serious, they can foster negative attitudes about self-injection and undermine a patient's commitment to treatment, espe [...]
22/09/2009 14:44
: Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) report a number of adverse events related to immunomodulator injections, including local injection-site reactions (LISRs). Reactions characterized by pain, swelling, redness, or inflammation have been experienced by patients who self-inject glatiramer acetate, interferon beta-1b, or interferon beta-1a. Although these reactions rarely are serious, they can foster negative attitudes about self-injection and undermine a patient's commitment to treatment, espe [...]
Efficacy of EMLA Cream to Reduce Fear and Pain Associated with Interferon Beta-1a Injection in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:39
colon; Fear of pain from injections may affect adherence to needed drug therapy. A single-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of EMLA cream in reducing the fear and pain associated with intramuscular (IM) injection during administration of interferon beta-1a to patients with multiple sclerosis. Patients rated fear of injection on a visual analog scale before the injection and rated injection pain following the injection. With the application of EMLA c [...]
22/09/2009 14:39
colon; Fear of pain from injections may affect adherence to needed drug therapy. A single-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of EMLA cream in reducing the fear and pain associated with intramuscular (IM) injection during administration of interferon beta-1a to patients with multiple sclerosis. Patients rated fear of injection on a visual analog scale before the injection and rated injection pain following the injection. With the application of EMLA c [...]
Impact of Co-Prescribed Glatiramer Acetate and Antihistamine Therapy on the Likelihood of Relapse Among Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:38
: We conducted a retrospective database study to examine the risk of relapse among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) who were simultaneously prescribed glatiramer acetate (GA) and antihistamine (AH) therapy. Medical and pharmacy claims data were culled from the PharMetrics Patient-Centric Database from January 1997 to March 2004. GA users were identified and followed until discontinuation or end of health-plan enrollment. Patients receiving concomitant prescription AH therapy were identified [...]
22/09/2009 14:38
: We conducted a retrospective database study to examine the risk of relapse among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) who were simultaneously prescribed glatiramer acetate (GA) and antihistamine (AH) therapy. Medical and pharmacy claims data were culled from the PharMetrics Patient-Centric Database from January 1997 to March 2004. GA users were identified and followed until discontinuation or end of health-plan enrollment. Patients receiving concomitant prescription AH therapy were identified [...]
Long-Term Treatment Optimization in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis Using Disease-Modifying Therapies: A Nursing Approach
22/09/2009 14:36
colon; The introduction of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) over the last 7 years has had a significant effect on the management of those living with this disease. Initially, the focus of improving treatment outcomes was on ensuring adherence to therapy by managing drug-related adverse events. However, treatment adherence is only one facet of ensuring optimal health outcomes for patients using DMTs. Therefore, a group of 80 nurses from Canada and the United States ( [...]
22/09/2009 14:36
colon; The introduction of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) over the last 7 years has had a significant effect on the management of those living with this disease. Initially, the focus of improving treatment outcomes was on ensuring adherence to therapy by managing drug-related adverse events. However, treatment adherence is only one facet of ensuring optimal health outcomes for patients using DMTs. Therefore, a group of 80 nurses from Canada and the United States ( [...]
The Influence of Metamemory on the Quality of Life of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:33
colon; This study examined the influence of metamemory (i.e., self-report of memory ability and skills), in combination with other factors, on quality of life for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Participants (482 persons with MS) completed instruments to measure functional limitations, depressive symptoms, metamemory, and perceived quality of life. Participants reported greater satisfaction with their memory performance but less frequent use of memory aids and strategies compared with 115 o [...]
22/09/2009 14:33
colon; This study examined the influence of metamemory (i.e., self-report of memory ability and skills), in combination with other factors, on quality of life for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Participants (482 persons with MS) completed instruments to measure functional limitations, depressive symptoms, metamemory, and perceived quality of life. Participants reported greater satisfaction with their memory performance but less frequent use of memory aids and strategies compared with 115 o [...]
Bridging the Gap Between Health Literacy and Patient Education for People with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:31
colon; Health literacy links literacy skill level with the ability to understand health information and take control of one's health. People who have multiple sclerosis (MS) are bombarded with information on the disease and its prognosis, symptom management, and complex treatment options-information that is vital to self-management and quality of life. Approximately 50% of the people who have MS experience cognitive deficits, such as memory loss and a diminished capacity for learning, processing [...]
22/09/2009 14:31
colon; Health literacy links literacy skill level with the ability to understand health information and take control of one's health. People who have multiple sclerosis (MS) are bombarded with information on the disease and its prognosis, symptom management, and complex treatment options-information that is vital to self-management and quality of life. Approximately 50% of the people who have MS experience cognitive deficits, such as memory loss and a diminished capacity for learning, processing [...]
The Influence of Resources on Perceived Functional Limitations Among Women with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:31
colon; The purpose of this longitudinal investigation was to identify the effects of external resources (i.e., education, marriage, employment, social support, economic status) on the trajectory of perceived functional limitation among women with multiple sclerosis (MS). We hypothesized that these resources would have a long-term influence upon MS-related functional limitation. As part of a longitudinal study of health promotion and quality of life among persons with MS, we tested hypothesized r [...]
22/09/2009 14:31
colon; The purpose of this longitudinal investigation was to identify the effects of external resources (i.e., education, marriage, employment, social support, economic status) on the trajectory of perceived functional limitation among women with multiple sclerosis (MS). We hypothesized that these resources would have a long-term influence upon MS-related functional limitation. As part of a longitudinal study of health promotion and quality of life among persons with MS, we tested hypothesized r [...]
Effects of a Cognitive-Behavioral Program for Women with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:29
colon; The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral intervention for women with multiple sclerosis (MS). Thirty-seven adult women with MS participated in a group-based intervention program titled "Beyond MS," which was led by master's-prepared psychiatric nurses. For participants, the program involved reading a manual and meeting for five weekly group sessions. Perceived health competence, coping behaviors, psychological well-being, qua [...]
22/09/2009 14:29
colon; The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral intervention for women with multiple sclerosis (MS). Thirty-seven adult women with MS participated in a group-based intervention program titled "Beyond MS," which was led by master's-prepared psychiatric nurses. For participants, the program involved reading a manual and meeting for five weekly group sessions. Perceived health competence, coping behaviors, psychological well-being, qua [...]
A Prospective Study of Adherence to Glatiramer Acetate in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis*
22/09/2009 14:27
colon; The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate whether self-efficacy, hope, level of disability, perceived support, and previous use of an immunomodulatory therapy when measured at the initiation of a therapy can accurately predict adherence. A convenience sample included 108 individuals with multiple sclerosis who initiated therapy with glatiramer acetate (Copaxone), plus or minus 21 days, and completed instruments online that included the Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy Scale [...]
22/09/2009 14:27
colon; The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate whether self-efficacy, hope, level of disability, perceived support, and previous use of an immunomodulatory therapy when measured at the initiation of a therapy can accurately predict adherence. A convenience sample included 108 individuals with multiple sclerosis who initiated therapy with glatiramer acetate (Copaxone), plus or minus 21 days, and completed instruments online that included the Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy Scale [...]
Top 10 Needs of People with Multiple Sclerosis and Their Significant Others
22/09/2009 14:17
colon; The purpose of this study was to identify the needs of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their significant others. A quantitative questionnaire, developed from focus groups and consisting of 75 needs statements, was administered to 353 MS patients and 240 significant others. Analysis produced rankings of the 10 most important needs of both groups. Rankings by the MS patients and significant others were similar. Three themes emerged. Psychosocial and other personal needs (relations [...]
22/09/2009 14:17
colon; The purpose of this study was to identify the needs of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their significant others. A quantitative questionnaire, developed from focus groups and consisting of 75 needs statements, was administered to 353 MS patients and 240 significant others. Analysis produced rankings of the 10 most important needs of both groups. Rankings by the MS patients and significant others were similar. Three themes emerged. Psychosocial and other personal needs (relations [...]
Pain in Women with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis and in Healthy Women: A Comparative Study
22/09/2009 14:16
: The purpose of this study was to examine multidimensional aspects of pain in women with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and in healthy women. A cross-sectional, comparative design was used. The convenience sample included 40 women with RRMS and 40 healthy women. Participants completed the Brief Pain Inventory-Long Form and the McGill Pain Questionnaire-Short Form. The women with RRMS had a significantly higher presence of pain (p = .005), present pain intensity (p = .02), average [...]
22/09/2009 14:16
: The purpose of this study was to examine multidimensional aspects of pain in women with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and in healthy women. A cross-sectional, comparative design was used. The convenience sample included 40 women with RRMS and 40 healthy women. Participants completed the Brief Pain Inventory-Long Form and the McGill Pain Questionnaire-Short Form. The women with RRMS had a significantly higher presence of pain (p = .005), present pain intensity (p = .02), average [...]
Chronic Sorrow in Next of Kin of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:15
: The well-being of patients' next of kin can be an important factor with regard to the care and rehabilitation of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the presence and meaning of chronic sorrow in a group of next of kin of patients with MS. Using a semistructured interview guide as a basis, 44 next of kin were interviewed. The results showed that 35 (80%) of the participants were considered to have chronic sorrow based on predetermined criteria [...]
22/09/2009 14:15
: The well-being of patients' next of kin can be an important factor with regard to the care and rehabilitation of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the presence and meaning of chronic sorrow in a group of next of kin of patients with MS. Using a semistructured interview guide as a basis, 44 next of kin were interviewed. The results showed that 35 (80%) of the participants were considered to have chronic sorrow based on predetermined criteria [...]
A Comparative Study of Self-Efficacy in Men and Women with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:04
: The purpose of this study was to examine if there was a difference in the level of self-efficacy between men and women with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). A quantitative, descriptive, comparative design was used. The convenience sample included 556 individuals with MS, of which 124 were men (73 RRMS and 51 progressive MS) and 432 women (348 RRMS and 84 progressive MS). Participants completed the Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy S [...]
22/09/2009 14:04
: The purpose of this study was to examine if there was a difference in the level of self-efficacy between men and women with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). A quantitative, descriptive, comparative design was used. The convenience sample included 556 individuals with MS, of which 124 were men (73 RRMS and 51 progressive MS) and 432 women (348 RRMS and 84 progressive MS). Participants completed the Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy S [...]
Assessment of Caregiver Burden in Families of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 14:03
: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, unpredictable, progressive, disabling disease. It is generally diagnosed in young adult females between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Symptoms of MS may include profound fatigue, depression, gait disorder, spasticity, blurred vision, and bladder and bowel problems. It is an unpredictable disease and has the potential to create a stressful family life. Because MS is frequently diagnosed in early adulthood, it may affect developmental experiences such as rais [...]
22/09/2009 14:03
: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, unpredictable, progressive, disabling disease. It is generally diagnosed in young adult females between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Symptoms of MS may include profound fatigue, depression, gait disorder, spasticity, blurred vision, and bladder and bowel problems. It is an unpredictable disease and has the potential to create a stressful family life. Because MS is frequently diagnosed in early adulthood, it may affect developmental experiences such as rais [...]
From Symptom to Diagnosis: Illness Experiences of Multiple Sclerosis Patients
22/09/2009 14:01
colon; This interview study describes 61 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients' conceptions of the disease before they were diagnosed and their experiences of the initial symptoms and the diagnosis. Qualitative content analysis was applied. The patients' perception of MS was in most cases disablement and death, but some narrated a more nuanced image of MS. The experiences of the initial symptoms and the diagnosis were stressful. The patients became and remained vulnerable through diagnosis. They mana [...]
22/09/2009 14:01
colon; This interview study describes 61 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients' conceptions of the disease before they were diagnosed and their experiences of the initial symptoms and the diagnosis. Qualitative content analysis was applied. The patients' perception of MS was in most cases disablement and death, but some narrated a more nuanced image of MS. The experiences of the initial symptoms and the diagnosis were stressful. The patients became and remained vulnerable through diagnosis. They mana [...]
Into the Unknown: The Experiences of Individuals Living with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:58
colon; This article examines the narratives of 16 individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Before diagnosis, the participants had experienced disparate and transient symptoms. Diagnosis itself involved numerous tests and health practitioners, varied responses to the diagnosis, an inability to assimilate information about the disease, and a view of MS as being the lesser of two evils. Immediately after diagnosis, participants revealed concerns about the unpredictable progression of the [...]
22/09/2009 13:58
colon; This article examines the narratives of 16 individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Before diagnosis, the participants had experienced disparate and transient symptoms. Diagnosis itself involved numerous tests and health practitioners, varied responses to the diagnosis, an inability to assimilate information about the disease, and a view of MS as being the lesser of two evils. Immediately after diagnosis, participants revealed concerns about the unpredictable progression of the [...]
Invisible and Visible Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis: Which Are More Predictive of Health Distress?
22/09/2009 13:57
: The purpose of this study was to examine whether it is the invisible or the visible symptoms or signs of multiple sclerosis (MS) that are associated with greater health distress. Visible symptoms include the use of assistive devices, problems with balance, and speech difficulties, while invisible symptoms include fatigue, pain, depression, and anxiety. In a sample of 145 adults with MS, participants reported on these symptoms and their current level of self-reported health distress. Hierarchic [...]
22/09/2009 13:57
: The purpose of this study was to examine whether it is the invisible or the visible symptoms or signs of multiple sclerosis (MS) that are associated with greater health distress. Visible symptoms include the use of assistive devices, problems with balance, and speech difficulties, while invisible symptoms include fatigue, pain, depression, and anxiety. In a sample of 145 adults with MS, participants reported on these symptoms and their current level of self-reported health distress. Hierarchic [...]
Perceptions of Women with Multiple Sclerosis About Osteoporosis Follow-up
22/09/2009 13:55
colon; Research has demonstrated that women with multiple sclerosis (MS) do not make maximum use of information about osteoporosis prevention and management, even when they are well-informed. Focus-group methodology and telephone interviews were used to study how women with MS use or could use information about osteoporosis prevention and management to influence their healthcare providers to attend to osteoporosis-related needs. Twenty-two participants were asked to discuss their own and their p [...]
22/09/2009 13:55
colon; Research has demonstrated that women with multiple sclerosis (MS) do not make maximum use of information about osteoporosis prevention and management, even when they are well-informed. Focus-group methodology and telephone interviews were used to study how women with MS use or could use information about osteoporosis prevention and management to influence their healthcare providers to attend to osteoporosis-related needs. Twenty-two participants were asked to discuss their own and their p [...]
Experiences of Children and Adolescents Living with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:54
colon; About 5% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are diagnosed before age 18. Because pediatric MS is uncommon, little is known about the experiences of children and adolescents living with MS. The purpose of this qualitative study was to learn from these youth what it is like to live with the diagnosis of MS. Twelve patients with clinically definite MS between the ages of 8 and 18 years were interviewed. Initially, they were unfamiliar with MS and had a multitude of feelings about the dia [...]
22/09/2009 13:54
colon; About 5% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are diagnosed before age 18. Because pediatric MS is uncommon, little is known about the experiences of children and adolescents living with MS. The purpose of this qualitative study was to learn from these youth what it is like to live with the diagnosis of MS. Twelve patients with clinically definite MS between the ages of 8 and 18 years were interviewed. Initially, they were unfamiliar with MS and had a multitude of feelings about the dia [...]
Early Interferon Beta Treatment in Multiple Sclerosis: Nursing Care Implications of the BENEFIT Study
22/09/2009 13:54
: Interferon beta (IFN) is a first-line treatment for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) that can reduce the rate of clinical attacks and limit disability progression. Recent trials have shown that initiating IFN treatment at the time of the first clinical event suggesting MS can delay the onset of clinically definite MS and, in the case of IFN -1b, inhibit the progression of later disability. These findings have led to a trend toward earlier treatment initiation in clinical practice. Wh [...]
22/09/2009 13:54
: Interferon beta (IFN) is a first-line treatment for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) that can reduce the rate of clinical attacks and limit disability progression. Recent trials have shown that initiating IFN treatment at the time of the first clinical event suggesting MS can delay the onset of clinically definite MS and, in the case of IFN -1b, inhibit the progression of later disability. These findings have led to a trend toward earlier treatment initiation in clinical practice. Wh [...]
Managing Self-Injection Difficulties in Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:53
colon; Difficulties with self-injection, including inability to self-inject, are common for individuals taking home-administered injectable medications. In relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), all of the currently available disease-modifying medications are injectables marketed for self-injection. Problems with self-injection pose a barrier to treatment adherence for many patients. Clinicians at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Multiple Sclerosis Center have developed a [...]
22/09/2009 13:53
colon; Difficulties with self-injection, including inability to self-inject, are common for individuals taking home-administered injectable medications. In relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), all of the currently available disease-modifying medications are injectables marketed for self-injection. Problems with self-injection pose a barrier to treatment adherence for many patients. Clinicians at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Multiple Sclerosis Center have developed a [...]
The Evolving Role of the Nurse in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:52
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The underlying pathology can be both inflammatory and degenerative. It affects over 400,000 Americans per year and usually strikes in the prime of life. The disease can result in serious and debilitating impairment of physical, emotional, and cognitive functions that limit patients' overall status, halt their hopes and dreams, and alter their quality of life. To slow disease progression, administration of di [...]
22/09/2009 13:52
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The underlying pathology can be both inflammatory and degenerative. It affects over 400,000 Americans per year and usually strikes in the prime of life. The disease can result in serious and debilitating impairment of physical, emotional, and cognitive functions that limit patients' overall status, halt their hopes and dreams, and alter their quality of life. To slow disease progression, administration of di [...]
Managing Chronic Sorrow: Experiences of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:50
: The goals of this study were to describe the ways in which patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) manage chronic sorrow and to apply this information to the theoretical model of chronic sorrow. This descriptive study involved 38 participants with MS who were experiencing chronic sorrow. Using the theoretical model of chronic sorrow, we applied content analysis to participants' accounts of how they attempted to manage this sorrow. The findings showed that discomfort resulted from ineffective man [...]
22/09/2009 13:50
: The goals of this study were to describe the ways in which patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) manage chronic sorrow and to apply this information to the theoretical model of chronic sorrow. This descriptive study involved 38 participants with MS who were experiencing chronic sorrow. Using the theoretical model of chronic sorrow, we applied content analysis to participants' accounts of how they attempted to manage this sorrow. The findings showed that discomfort resulted from ineffective man [...]
Evaluation of a Transmural Care Model for Multiple Sclerosis Patients
22/09/2009 13:48
colon; This study assessed a transmural care model for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients to see whether it would improve patient outcomes, continuity of care, and quality of life. The study group consisted of 77 MS patients who received care on the basis of the Transmural Care Model for Multiple Sclerosis. A comparison group of 96 MS patients received traditional care as usual. A written questionnaire was sent to both groups of participants at baseline and 10 months later. The questionnaire focus [...]
22/09/2009 13:48
colon; This study assessed a transmural care model for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients to see whether it would improve patient outcomes, continuity of care, and quality of life. The study group consisted of 77 MS patients who received care on the basis of the Transmural Care Model for Multiple Sclerosis. A comparison group of 96 MS patients received traditional care as usual. A written questionnaire was sent to both groups of participants at baseline and 10 months later. The questionnaire focus [...]
Multiple Sclerosis Patients Talking with Healthcare Providers About Emotions
22/09/2009 13:46
: The purpose of this study was to consider multiple sclerosis (MS) patients' experiences of talking with healthcare professionals about emotions and their emotional well-being both at the time of diagnosis and while they are living with the illness. Relationships between talking about emotions and positive outcomes were examined. The 145 respondents completed a paper-and-pencil survey, an Internet survey, or a telephone interview. Forty-four percent of respondents indicated that a healthcare pr [...]
22/09/2009 13:46
: The purpose of this study was to consider multiple sclerosis (MS) patients' experiences of talking with healthcare professionals about emotions and their emotional well-being both at the time of diagnosis and while they are living with the illness. Relationships between talking about emotions and positive outcomes were examined. The 145 respondents completed a paper-and-pencil survey, an Internet survey, or a telephone interview. Forty-four percent of respondents indicated that a healthcare pr [...]
Job Satisfaction Among Multiple Sclerosis Certified Nurses
22/09/2009 13:45
: Several studies document high levels of job satisfaction among certified nurses, but no study has examined job satisfaction and factors influencing job satisfaction of certified multiple sclerosis (MS) nurses. This study tested a theoretical model proposing that two organizational factors, colleague relationships and benefits, will predict job satisfaction. Job satisfaction was represented by four factors: autonomy, professional status, professional growth, and time efficiency. Participants in [...]
22/09/2009 13:45
: Several studies document high levels of job satisfaction among certified nurses, but no study has examined job satisfaction and factors influencing job satisfaction of certified multiple sclerosis (MS) nurses. This study tested a theoretical model proposing that two organizational factors, colleague relationships and benefits, will predict job satisfaction. Job satisfaction was represented by four factors: autonomy, professional status, professional growth, and time efficiency. Participants in [...]
Husbands and Wives Living with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:44
colon; Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently is diagnosed in young adults. Coping with symptoms of MS is challenging not only for the person with the disease, but also for his or her spouse. The well spouse often assumes the caregiving role. The purpose of this qualitative research was to investigate the experiences of persons whose spouses have MS. Twelve people participated in a 2-hour focus group: 8 men and 4 women. The husbands were, on average, 50 years old, and the wives averaged 55 years old [...]
22/09/2009 13:44
colon; Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently is diagnosed in young adults. Coping with symptoms of MS is challenging not only for the person with the disease, but also for his or her spouse. The well spouse often assumes the caregiving role. The purpose of this qualitative research was to investigate the experiences of persons whose spouses have MS. Twelve people participated in a 2-hour focus group: 8 men and 4 women. The husbands were, on average, 50 years old, and the wives averaged 55 years old [...]
A Case Study: Identifying Alcohol Abuse in Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:41
: Limited information is available regarding alcohol abuse in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Tools are available to assist clinicians in screening and intervention for alcoholism. Though the literature does not convincingly support that patients with MS are at a significantly increased risk for developing alcohol abuse, it may complicate symptoms or aggravate their underlying neurologic disease. This case study provides an example of an individual with MS whose condition is complicated by [...]
22/09/2009 13:41
: Limited information is available regarding alcohol abuse in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Tools are available to assist clinicians in screening and intervention for alcoholism. Though the literature does not convincingly support that patients with MS are at a significantly increased risk for developing alcohol abuse, it may complicate symptoms or aggravate their underlying neurologic disease. This case study provides an example of an individual with MS whose condition is complicated by [...]
The Importance of Early Treatment: Considerations for Multiple Sclerosis Nurses
22/09/2009 13:26
The disease-modifying therapies available for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) differ in their efficacy, safety, and their mode and frequency of administration. Consequently, it has always been important for healthcare providers to understand the differences between the available therapies for MS. Recently, the role of the healthcare provider has become even more complex in light of novel and compelling clinical evidence demonstrating that early treatment of MS can delay long-term diseas [...]
22/09/2009 13:26
The disease-modifying therapies available for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) differ in their efficacy, safety, and their mode and frequency of administration. Consequently, it has always been important for healthcare providers to understand the differences between the available therapies for MS. Recently, the role of the healthcare provider has become even more complex in light of novel and compelling clinical evidence demonstrating that early treatment of MS can delay long-term diseas [...]
Cladribine Tablets' Potential in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment
22/09/2009 13:21
: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system occurring in genetically susceptible individuals. T and B lymphocytes are thought to be important in the pathogenesis of MS. Among the unmet needs in MS therapeutics are agents with improved efficacy and safety profiles and improved routes of administration. Cladribine, which is a preferential lymphocyte-depleting therapy, has the potential to be the first oral agent available for the treatme [...]
22/09/2009 13:21
: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system occurring in genetically susceptible individuals. T and B lymphocytes are thought to be important in the pathogenesis of MS. Among the unmet needs in MS therapeutics are agents with improved efficacy and safety profiles and improved routes of administration. Cladribine, which is a preferential lymphocyte-depleting therapy, has the potential to be the first oral agent available for the treatme [...]
Aging with Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:20
colon; Although multiple sclerosis (MS) does not typically reduce life expectancy, there has been relatively little systematic investigation of the experiences and healthrelated concerns of people aging with this disease. A current search of the database CINAHL produced no articles when the search terms "multiple sclerosis," "nursing" and "aging" were used. To initiate more dialogue about the role of nurses in addressing the issues and concerns of people aging with MS, a cross-sectional descript [...]
22/09/2009 13:20
colon; Although multiple sclerosis (MS) does not typically reduce life expectancy, there has been relatively little systematic investigation of the experiences and healthrelated concerns of people aging with this disease. A current search of the database CINAHL produced no articles when the search terms "multiple sclerosis," "nursing" and "aging" were used. To initiate more dialogue about the role of nurses in addressing the issues and concerns of people aging with MS, a cross-sectional descript [...]
Effective Multiple Sclerosis Management Through Improved Patient Assessment
22/09/2009 13:18
: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease with a wide range of clinical manifestations. Current disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) are effective, but they are associated with effects that may negatively influence treatment compliance. A recent nursing advisory board of MS nurse experts from the Midwest discussed management approaches that can enhance DMD compliance and improve patient satisfaction and quality of life. One such approach is the use of patient questionnaires as tools to assess sig [...]
22/09/2009 13:18
: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease with a wide range of clinical manifestations. Current disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) are effective, but they are associated with effects that may negatively influence treatment compliance. A recent nursing advisory board of MS nurse experts from the Midwest discussed management approaches that can enhance DMD compliance and improve patient satisfaction and quality of life. One such approach is the use of patient questionnaires as tools to assess sig [...]
Serotonin Syndrome
22/09/2009 13:17
colon; Serotonin syndrome is a preventable, drugrelated complication that results from increased brainstem serotonin activity, usually precipitated by the use of one or more serotonergic drugs. Its clinical presentation consists of autonomic dysfunction, alteration in mental status, and neuromuscular disorder. Early recognition and treatment is important, because this condition is potentially fatal. Management includes withdrawal of causative agents and supportive measures such as hemodynamic st [...]
22/09/2009 13:17
colon; Serotonin syndrome is a preventable, drugrelated complication that results from increased brainstem serotonin activity, usually precipitated by the use of one or more serotonergic drugs. Its clinical presentation consists of autonomic dysfunction, alteration in mental status, and neuromuscular disorder. Early recognition and treatment is important, because this condition is potentially fatal. Management includes withdrawal of causative agents and supportive measures such as hemodynamic st [...]
Nursing Grand Rounds: Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:16
colon; Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a highly variable, unpredictable disease and one of the most life-altering diagnoses a person can receive. Because it usually strikes in the prime of life, frequently progresses to disability, and has no cure, MS can make a strong emotional impact-not only on those who suffer from it, but also the healthcare team. Because MS is such a complex, multifaceted disorder, nurses who care for people with MS are faced with numerous clinical challenges. Many of the chall [...]
22/09/2009 13:16
colon; Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a highly variable, unpredictable disease and one of the most life-altering diagnoses a person can receive. Because it usually strikes in the prime of life, frequently progresses to disability, and has no cure, MS can make a strong emotional impact-not only on those who suffer from it, but also the healthcare team. Because MS is such a complex, multifaceted disorder, nurses who care for people with MS are faced with numerous clinical challenges. Many of the chall [...]
The Concept of Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis
22/09/2009 13:16
: Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), and it can have a major impact on health-related quality of life. Therefore, it is imperative that healthcare practitioners regularly assess fatigue in their patients with MS. Fatigue can be caused either by the disease process (primary fatigue) or by other problems such as insomnia, infections, or depression (secondary fatigue). Because the causes of secondary fatigue are generally amenable to treatment, it is important th [...]
22/09/2009 13:16
: Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), and it can have a major impact on health-related quality of life. Therefore, it is imperative that healthcare practitioners regularly assess fatigue in their patients with MS. Fatigue can be caused either by the disease process (primary fatigue) or by other problems such as insomnia, infections, or depression (secondary fatigue). Because the causes of secondary fatigue are generally amenable to treatment, it is important th [...]