Can ICNP® be used in the process of nursing of patients with rheumatoid arthritis? Part 2.

Introduction. The diagnosis of RA has not only physical consequences in patients, but also psychological and socio-economic ones. The patients often suffer from anxiety associated with the prospect of disability, sleep disorders, and the increased risk of depression. The aim of the treatment of the patients with RA, apart from the elimination of the inflammation, is to maintain the patient’s independence as long as possible, therefore the education of the patient and their carers is considered significantly important. Learning to live with the disease reduces anxiety, and facilitates the process of accepting the disease.

Aim. The objective of this study was an attempt to answer the question: can the International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP®) be used in the process of nursing of patients with rheumatoid arthritis?

Material and methods. In this paper, a method of the analysis and critique of selected Polish literature from the last decade that included the aspects of nursing of patients with RA was used, and the cross-mapping of the diagnoses and nursing interventions with the use of the ICNP® dictionary (online version available on the International Council of Nurses site).

Results and conclusions. All the key problems of the care of patients with RA (concerning psychological and social spheres: fatigue, chronic sadness, potential negative depression, anxiety and actual negative ability to perform self care act) and the activities undertaken in nursing them expressed in the traditional way were replaced with the ICNP® diagnoses and interventions. The use of terms from other classifications is an interesting proposal to supplement/complete the plan of care, and it also emphasizes the individual character of the service provided by the nurse.

Nursing Topics 2015; 23 (4): 527–532