title: Providing holistic support for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
abstract: Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are life-long, complex conditions. They are characterised by periods of exacerbation and remission and surgical intervention may be required in severe cases. Drugs employed in the management of IBD are used to induce remission and maintain remission. IBD has a physical, psychological and sociological impact on individuals and IBD quality standards have been developed to provide a framework for addressing the services and care that should be available for them. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies play an important role in the holistic approach to management of IBD as they are being increasingly used alongside conventional medical treatments. Community nurses have an important role to play in the management and care of individuals with IBD and in supporting them in making informed and appropriate choices that support their wellbeing and quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. vera.todorovic@dbh.uhs.uk
authors.forename: Vera
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Todorovic
mesh_terms: D000529:Complementary Therapies; D018939:Holistic Nursing; D006801:Humans; D015212:Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing* / Q000628:therapy*; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000517:prevention & control; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D006113:United Kingdom