title: Compassionate Care for Patients With Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.
abstract: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating condition characterized by specific symptoms such as intense pain and loss of function. This syndrome can be so devastating that it affects quality of life. Often, CRPS is misdiagnosed and misunderstood, which can be extremely frustrating for patients. The purpose of the survey in this study was to query actual patients living with CRPS to gain additional knowledge and suggestions to help improve their care. Respondents expressed a variety of emotions when asked about their healthcare experiences, which suggests that healthcare providers need to be better educated about CRPS so they can provide more compassionate care for patients trying to cope with this condition.
authors.affiliation: Questions or comments about this article may be directed to Melissa A. Schneider, RN-BC DNP ONC CNRN, at mschneider@wellspan.org. She is a Clinical Nurse Educator, Ortho/Neuro/Trauma Unit, York Hospital, York, PA. Carolyn E. Smith, RN MSN, is a Staff Nurse, Ortho/Neuro/Trauma Unit, York Hospital, York, PA. Michelle A. Pomidor, RN CRNP, is a Neurosurgical Nurse Practitioner, Ortho/Neuro/Trauma Unit, York Hospital, York, PA.
authors.forename: Melissa A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Schneider
authors.forename: Carolyn E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: Michelle A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Pomidor
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D020918:Complex Regional Pain Syndromes / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*; D004645:Empathy; D005260:Female; D064946:Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015399:Nursing Research; D010147:Pain Measurement / Q000451:nursing; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012803:Sick Role; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult