Chronic fatigue syndrome: the nurse's role.
BACKGROUND
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a disorder of no proven cause, is characterised by extended periods of extreme, debilitating fatigue and related symptoms. This article discusses this distressing disorder and identifies the needs of those who have it. The authors suggest that the nurse could fulfil the role of key professional carer, interacting with the individual with CFS to co-ordinate care and form the pivotal therapeutic relationship.


CONCLUSIONS
CFS remains a chronic illness of uncertain cause and prognosis. For those with CFS, care priorities involve validation, information and advocacy, a therapeutic relationship and co-ordinated care. The particular philosophy of care held by nurses makes them potentially ideal co-ordinators of care for those with CFS.
Aylett
Elizabeth
E
School of Nursing Studies, University of Edinburgh. lizzie@aylett.co.uk
Fawcett
Tonks N
TN
D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D015673:Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations