Nursing Recommendations in the Management of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Delphi Consensus

Abstract

Introduction: Nurses’ role in the management of people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is essential. Specific guidelines for nurses have not been previously developed in Spain. This project aimed to try to develop comprehensive and validated recommendations for nurses regarding the management of people with SLE. Method: A Delphi questionnaire with 90 general and specific recommendations was designed by the scientific committee and underwent two rounds of participation. Results: Panellists reached a consensus on “agreement” for 85 recommendations during the first round and for 87 recommendations after the second and final rounds. Panellists agreed that people with SLE should be managed within a multidisciplinary team, and that this team should include specialized nurses. Panellists stated that most of the services lack specialized nurses. Experts identified lack of specific training programs targeted to nurses as the main barrier for application of recommendations. Panellists recommended an extended role for nurses in the management of people with SLE, including diagnosis, patient education, treatment monitoring and administration, and follow-up. Conclusions: This study is the first consensus that provides nursing recommendations from experts on the management of people with SLE in Europe. Design of standardized training programs targeted to nurses would facilitate the application of the recommendations.