Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), impacting patients' independence, daily functioning, and adherence to treatment. At the first MS Nurse PRO Best Practice Sharing Session, nurses from across Europe—particularly from Turkey—gathered to exchange practical insights and evidence-informed approaches to managing this complex symptom.
Fatigue affects up to 80% of people with MS and is often described as overwhelming and invisible. Nurses, as consistent points of contact throughout the MS journey, are uniquely positioned to recognize its early signs and tailor support to each patient’s needs. The session emphasized that managing fatigue isn’t just about physical energy—it also requires addressing psychological, emotional, and social factors.
The session outlined a comprehensive program designed specifically to address fatigue in people with MS.
One of the session highlights was the presentation of a comprehensive fatigue management program designed for people with MS who struggle with fatigue. The program combines education, continuous nurse support, and digital monitoring into an accessible, patient-centered model.
The program consists of three key components:
1. Web-Based Education
Patients participated in ten interactive sessions, delivered twice weekly via an online platform. These sessions covered both the understanding and self-management of fatigue. A unique strength of the program was its peer-support element—participants were encouraged to share their experiences and challenges, fostering a sense of community and emotional support.
2. Nurse Support Program
Nurses maintained regular, individualized contact with patients through weekly phone calls and ongoing availability by message or call. This ensured that patients had direct, personalized guidance throughout their journey, helping them stay engaged and address concerns in real time.
3. Monitoring and Follow-Up
Patient progress was monitored using validated fatigue scales. These assessments helped nurses tailor support and track outcomes over time.
This program clearly underscores the crucial role of telehealth in delivering personalized, continuous care for people living with MS. By leveraging digital platforms, the team was able to provide structured education, regular nurse contact, and real-time monitoring—all without the need for frequent clinic visits.
This not only increased accessibility for patients with mobility or energy limitations but also created a flexible, patient-driven environment where support was always within reach.
As MS care evolves, telehealth is proving to be a vital tool in bridging gaps, enhancing patient engagement, and enabling nurses to deliver more responsive, individualized support—especially for complex symptoms like fatigue.
To access the full recording of this session, you can enroll in the dedicated short course available through the MS Nurse PRO platform.