title: How rheumatoid arthritis affects patients and families.
abstract: This article looks at the social problems of adults with rheumatoid arthritis. The effects on the family and children are discussed along with the role responsibilities. The role of the nurse in relation to patients and their family is illustrated.
authors.affiliation: North Staffordshire Hospital NHS Trust.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ryan
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012380:Role; D012649:Self Concept; D012723:Sex