Self management Resources

As lymphoedema prevalence continues to rise causing increasing demand for services, optimising patient self-management is vital. In the UK, lymphoedema treatment models have traditionally followed the ‘four cornerstones’ approach, including skin care, compression therapy, physical activity, and lymphatic drainage massage. These address the physical manifestations of lymphoedema yet neglect the psychological and emotional impact. Since the establishment of the psychology service within the Lymphoedema Wales Clinical Network (LWCN) in 2023, a more holistic model of care has been introduced into clinical practice. This development reflects a growing recognition of the psychological burden associated with lymphoedema and the need for integrated support services. The introduction of the lymphoedema COMPASS treatment model represents a significant advancement in routine care delivery, combining physical and psychological interventions to support patients to live as well as possible with lymphoedema. The COMPASS model is designed to place individuals at the centre of their care, promoting active engagement and self-management. It supports and encourages patients to take ownership of their condition, including the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany lymphoedema.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a collective name for a number of conditions such as Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Crohn’s Disease (CD). It produces uncontrolled, chronic inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. IBD is characterised as a chronic illness that is punctuated by disease exacerbation and remission; patients require an individual, multidisciplinary/multimodal approach to care. There is currently no permanent cure for either CD or UC, therefore treatment strategies focus on good symptom control, modification of the disease process and improving quality of life.

This article gives an overview of the condition and presents a personal patient experience.

Kathryn Foskett Senior Colorectal Clinical Nurse Specialist, The Hillingdon Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesex
Kathryn.odey@thh.nhs.uk

Article accepted for publication: March 2013

Margaret Barnett looks at improving healthcare professionals’ knowledge and skills to support the process of self-management for patients living with COPD

Margaret Barnett, RGN, MSc in Nursing Studies, COPD Dip.,COPD Specialist Nurse, Team Lead , Estover Health Centre, Plymouth.

Article accepted for publication: May 2009