The evolving role of the multiple sclerosis nurse - implications of future management directions: Proceedings of an International Symposium held at the Intercontinental Hotel, Athens, Greece, 22-24 September 2011

The role of the multiple sclerosis (MS) nurse is constantly evolving, owing to the introduction of new MS therapies and new patient treatment and support strategies. The second MS nurse symposium, 'The Evolving Role of the MS Nurse: Implications of Future Management Directions' took place in Athens between 22-24 September 2011 and was attended by approximately 300 participants from 30 countries. Presentations at the symposium outlined the mechanisms of action and clinical evidence for novel therapies for MS treatment. The importance of making clinical trial data available and understandable to people with MS was addressed, followed by a summary of the latest data on established MS therapies and an update on autoinjectors and their role in improving adherence. Novel patient support strategies were outlined followed by presentations by MS nurses from different countries who discussed their roles and their opportunities to evolve against a background of very different healthcare systems. Group discussions of typical MS case examples emphasised the need for good communications and relationships between patients and MS nurses. The final session focused on communication skills, highlighting 'tips' for engaging with people with MS and examining the challenges that different patient expectations and communication media can bring. © TOUCHBRIEFINGS 2012.