Published: British Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, 2022
Abstract
Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis is a complex and multifaceted condition often characterised by a progressive worsening of neurological disability, independent of relapses, that follows an initial relapsing–remitting course. This article discusses the current management of this condition from a nursing perspective, highlighting some of the recent service-level and disease-specific challenges faced by specialist nurses involved in the diagnosis and management of secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. The review also considers ways the multiple sclerosis community can work together to maximise opportunities to optimise patient outcomes. This includes improving working relationships within clinical teams and defining clearer referral pathways when disease progression is suspected, embracing technology, as well as addressing recent evidence demonstrating variability in current practices for diagnosing secondary progressive multiple sclerosis and communicating diagnoses to patients.
