The MS Nurse PRO session at ECTRIMS 2023 unfolded as a pivotal gathering, orchestrated by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP) and MS Nurse PRO, on October 11, 2023. Under the seasoned guidance of Piet Eelen and Miguel Angel Robles Sanchez, this exclusive session not only delved into the intricacies of Pregnancy in MS and the supporting role of the MS nurse but also aimed to provide a rich, practical exploration of real-world challenges faced by MS nurses.
The session opened with a compelling emphasis on real-world translation—an immersive journey bridging the realms of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Attendees were not just passive observers but active participants, engaging in thought-provoking discussions on the nuanced topics of family planning, pregnancy, and childhood within the multifaceted landscape of multiple sclerosis.
Illuminating Childhood MS and the MS Nurse's Role: Lucy Lyons, a luminary in the field from ULCH London, took the stage, guiding participants through an enlightening exploration of the unique challenges surrounding childhood MS. Through her narrative, attendees gained a profound understanding of the pivotal role MS nurses play in nurturing young patients. Lyons' insights emphasized the need for specialized care that recognizes and addresses the distinct needs of this demographic, underscoring the holistic approach required for effective MS nursing.
Navigating Family Planning Amidst Misinformation: The stage then shifted to Lorena López from CEMCAT Barcelona, whose engaging talk unraveled the impact of misinformation on family planning choices for women with multiple sclerosis. López skillfully exposed the complexities of this issue, highlighting the indispensable role MS nurses play in providing accurate information and vital support during family planning discussions. Her insights underscored the critical need for informed decision-making in the context of MS, emphasizing the trusted role of MS nurses as conduits of reliable information.
Pioneering Pre-conception & Pregnancy Care: The final chapter of the session was led by Daisy Cam, representing Sheffield Hospitals (UK). Cam's discourse delved into the pioneering realm of pre-conception and pregnancy care, illuminating the indispensable role of MS Specialist Nurses in establishing multidisciplinary Pre-conception & Pregnancy Clinics. Her narrative showcased the power of collaboration across specialties, emphasizing the creation of a holistic service that empowers patients before, during, and after pregnancy. Cam's insights resonated as a testament to the transformative impact that a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach can have on the quality of care in MS nursing.
Beyond the stage, the MS Nurse PRO session spurred a wave of reflection among attendees. Nurses who were recipients of MS Nurse PRO grants to attend ECTRIMS 2023 shared their profound takeaways and experiences, further enriching the collective narrative of empowerment and knowledge exchange that characterized the session.
In essence, the MS Nurse PRO session at ECTRIMS 2023 emerged not just as an academic exploration but as a dynamic, participatory experience that illuminated the challenges, opportunities, and transformative potential within the realm of MS nursing. It stood as a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and collaborative spirit of MS nurses committed to advancing patient care in the face of the complex dynamics of multiple sclerosis.
The impact of the MS Nurse PRO session extended beyond the lecture halls. Nurses who received MS Nurse PRO grants to attend the conference shared their reflections on the broader ECTRIMS 2023 experience.
Els Grimonprez, an MS nurse from AZ Alma, underscored the importance of a gradual transition from pediatric to adult MS services, advocating for early discussions starting at age 14. She stressed the role of MS nurses in dispelling misinformation affecting family planning choices for women with MS.
"Advocating for a gradual transition from pediatric to adult MS services is pivotal. Early discussions, starting at age 14, are crucial for building rapport with the patient and ensuring high adherence to long-term management." (Els Grimonprez, 2023)
Vanessa Cardoso, from Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided by MS Nurse PRO, enabling her to attend ECTRIMS for the first time. She highlighted key takeaways, including the need for innovative clinical care approaches like shared clinics between obstetrics and neurology.
"I'm truly grateful for the opportunity provided by MS Nurse PRO, enabling my first attendance at ECTRIMS. Key takeaways include the imperative for innovative clinical care, exemplified by shared clinics between obstetrics and neurology." (Vanessa Cardoso, 2023)
Eirini Samdanidou, from University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust reflected on the global collaboration facilitated by the conference. She shared her experience connecting with speakers and offering assistance for implementing the INTERACT 2024 study, emphasizing the importance of digital-resilience training for people with MS facing work instability.
"ECTRIMS 2023 facilitated global collaboration. Connecting with speakers and contributing to the INTERACT 2024 study highlighted the importance of digital-resilience training for people with MS facing work instability." (Eirini Samdanidou, 2023)
Noelia López Ramón, from the Spanish Society of Neurological Nursing (SEDENE), acknowledged the inspiring discussions on advance practice nursing during the MS Nurse meeting. She emphasized the leadership role of nursing in providing evidence-based care and thanked MS Nurse PRO for the opportunity to enhance daily practice.
"The MS Nurse meeting sparked inspiring discussions on advance practice nursing. Emphasizing the leadership role of nursing in evidence-based care, MS Nurse PRO provided a unique opportunity to enhance daily practice." (Noelia López Ramón, 2023)
Roseline Iqbal, a study nurse coordinator at CHU Charleroi, highlighted the importance of MS nurses as advocates, promoting comprehensive individual care for patients with MS. She addressed challenges in transitioning from pediatric to adult care and stressed the need for careful planning and avoiding overinvolvement of family members.
"MS nurses serve as advocates, promoting comprehensive care for patients with MS. Careful planning and avoiding overinvolvement of family members are crucial in the challenging transition from pediatric to adult care." (Roseline Iqbal, 2023)
Jamie-Louise Coward, working at the Walton Centre NHS foundation trust, expressed awe at the wealth of research presented at ECTRIMS 2023, inspiring her to explore audits within her practice. She thanked MSNURSEPRO for facilitating connections with MS nurses across Europe, promoting the exchange of practices.
"ECTRIMS 2023 showcased a wealth of research, inspiring me to explore audits in my practice. MSNURSEPRO facilitated connections with MS nurses across Europe, fostering an exchange of practices that will undoubtedly benefit patient care." (Jamie-Louise Coward, 2023)
In essence, the MS Nurse PRO session at ECTRIMS 2023, coupled with the reflections of MS nurses who attended, encapsulated a collective commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and ultimately enhancing the quality of care for patients with multiple sclerosis.
