AB1383 Rheumatology nurses knowledge and confidence in the ever-changing rheumatology -a regional survey among east midlands rheumatology specialist nurses
Authors: T. Dorman, M. Attwal, J. Sabu, A. Moorthy
Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2018)

<h3>Background</h3> Rheumatology as a specialty moving rapidly due to the advent of novel therapeutic agents. Rheumatic Disease management concepts are also changing with a treat to target approach and early escalation of therapies. Role of Rheumatology specialist nurses should not be underestimated in the tight control and achieve treat to target goals. The expectation of Specialist Nurse role has been changed over the years. NHS pressure in service delivery compromised teaching and training opportunities for Specialists Nurses which may result in the knowledge gap. Education and training for Rheumatology nurses are key in delivering high-quality service to rheumatology patients. We attempted to explore the current knowledge and skills among Rheumatology specialist nurses regionally. <h3>Objectives</h3> 1To explore the knowledge perception of different disease management 2. To identify the difference in two disease management RA and Spondyloarthropathy(SpA). 3. To evaluate the confidence level in assessing different Rheumatic diseases <h3>Methods</h3> This is a Questionnaire based prospective study among east midlands Rheumatology Specialist Nurses. The initial questionnaire was piloted and improved 17 questionnaires were distributed among the specialist nurses working in our region via email and in person. The questions were designed to gauge the nurses level of confidence in assessing different rheumatology conditions and also their confidence in making treatment decisions for different conditions. <h3>Results</h3> 26 out of 40 nurses in East Midlands responded with response rate of 65%. 77% Reponses are from nurses working in University hospitals and 23% working from DGH. The level of experience in current role is variable from 2 to 20 Year and clinical session performed by nurses varies from 2–8 per week. The nurses are mostly supervised by consultant and some do independent clinic. The awareness of delay in diagnosis of Spa is about 80% with average reported delay as 6 years. Confidence in assessing RA is very good however not confident in assessing SLE. Confidence level in counselling biologic therapy varies with different diseases with SLE been very low. SpA assessment with extra articular management is low and less confidence in advising therapy in Pregnancy. Interesting note the awareness concept of Non-Radiographic Spa and MRI protocols in Spa Confidence is exists. Variable level of confidence in the in assessment of various diseases. Confidence in assessing Fibromyalgia in a patient with Rheumatic disease is at a low level. <h3>Conclusions</h3> we noted the very good level of confidence in RA and PSA assessment and management however low levels of confidence in the assessment of SLE and SpA. More education and training is needed particularly focused on assessment. This is the first study among Rheumatology Specialist Nurses with limitations. Education and training through continuous Medical education for Rheumatology nurses are key to achieve tight control of Rheumatic diseases, reduce the morbidity and Mortality. <h3>Reference</h3> [1] Solomon DH, Bitton A, Fraenkel L, Brown E, Tsao P, Katz JN. Roles of nurse practitioners and physician assistants in rheumatology practices in the US. Arthritis Care Res2014Jul;66(7):1108–13. <h3>Acknowledgements</h3> 1. All East Midlands Nurses who completed this regional survey. <h3>Disclosure of Interest</h3> None declared