The International Multiple Sclerosis Clinic – A Virtual Tour of Best Practice Multiple Sclerosis Nursing

Multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system, is one of the most common causes of neurological disability in adults. The efficacy of disease-modifying therapies is improving and more oral medications are becoming available. These treatments have effects that include limiting chronic inflammatory damage, reducing the frequency of relapses, delaying disease progression and controlling symptoms. Most of these medications, however, can only delay disease progression and some have side effects that increase the burden of disease. The need for close monitoring varies between drugs and in the treatment-decision process, it is important to discuss the benefit–risk profile with the patient and to take account of the long-term nature of this disease. MS nurses have a pivotal role in the patient management and are important in ensuring compliance with treatment. The 2012 ‘MS International Clinic’ at Barcelona gathered MS nursing professionals from 26 countries and offered a singular opportunity to review the pathophysiology of the disease and discuss the benefits and limitations of current treatment options. The MS International Clinic also aimed to strengthen the role of the MS nurse in symptom management and patient support and to share best nursing practices.