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Rheumatology is a multi-disciplinary branch of medicine that deals with the investigation, diagnosis and management of patients with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. This incorporates over 200 disorders affecting joints, bones, muscles and soft tissues, including inflammatory arthritis and other systemic autoimmune disorders, vasculitis, soft tissue conditions, spinal pain and metabolic bone disease. A significant number of musculoskeletal conditions also affect other organ systems.

The Rheumatology Clinical Nurse Specialist is a trained nurse who has specialised experience in looking after the physical, emotional and social needs of people with a Rheumatological condition. They care for people with rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia and lupus and numerous other conditions. Standardised care is delivered alongside national and regional regulations yet still enables an individualised patient-centered approach.

The key role of the Rheumatology Clinical Nurse Specialist is to ensure that patients receive the correct and timely treatment, tailored to their individual needs. They actively encourage Shared-decision Making. They ensure that every patient has access to expert support and appropriate education to improve their understanding of their disease and its management so that they can make informed decisions. The Clinical Nurse Specialist supports the patient at any point along their journey.

The diagnosis of arthritis or a related condition can lead to a mixture of emotions; these may include anger, bewilderment, fear and anxiety. A detailed explanation about what the diagnosis means can reduce anxiety and fear. The Clinical Nurse Specialist will listen to the patient’s particular concerns and provide information and support during periods of adjustment. The unpredictable and fluctuating nature of rheumatic disease means that rapid access to advice is of the utmost importance for patients. An advice line service is available in Worcestershire, which enhances patients’ continuity of care and provides them with access to a knowledgeable practitioner at times of need. The Clinical Nurse Specialist also works closely with the Consultant Rheumatologist, physiotherapist, and occupational therapist and when necessary will discuss their care with the rheumatology team.