This article discusses Parkinson’s disease and the role of the Parkinson’s disease nurse specialist. In order to gain a comprehensive overview of the role of specialist nurses, this article should be read in conjunction with the report on page 32 which evaluates the role of the Parkinson’s disease nurse specialist, the Nursing Update workbook ‘Caring together: clinical supervision’ in this week's nursing standard and the accompanying television programme on BBC2’s the learning zone, see schedule on page 55
The number of people affected by Parkinson's disease is on the increase and it is likely that the majority of nurses will provide care, in some form, to these patients during their working life. The aim of this article is to outline the disease pathway of Parkinson’s disease and to describe common symptoms and treatments so that you are better informed. In this way, care provided to people with Parkinson’s disease, and the support of their carers, will be enhanced. After reading this article you should be able to:
Describe the condition known as Parkinson's disease
Discuss the presenting symptoms
Outline the possible treatment options
Demonstrate awareness of educating patients and their carers
Articulate the role of the nurse in caring for people with Parkinson's disease.
Nursing Standard. 12, 22, 49-56. doi: 10.7748/ns.12.22.49.s49
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