Includes bibliographical references and index.

The principles, practice and evolution of rheumatology nursing / Sarah Ryan and Jackie Hill -- The musculoskeletal system and the rheumatic diseases / Valerie Arthur and Jackie Hill -- The immune system and rheumatic disease / Susan Oliver -- Biochemical, haematological and clinical assessments in the rheumatic diseases / Jackie Hill -- The psychological aspects of rheumatic disease / Sarah Ryan -- The effects of rheumatic disease on body image and sexuality / Jackie Hill -- The social implications of rheumatic disease / Sarah Ryan -- Pain and stiffness / Jackie Hill -- Fatigue and sleep / Christine White -- The skin and nutrition / Naomi Reay, Sally Smith, Jill Byrne -- Multidisciplinary teamcare of the rheumatic patient / Pauline Fitzgerald -- Medications in the rheumatic diseases / Jo White and Domini Bryer -- Complimentary interventions / Anne Cawthorn and Peter Mackereth -- Surgical interventions / Maureen Cox -- Patient education / Jackie Hill -- Seamless primary and secondary care / Mandy Edwards -- Paediatric care / Gill Jackson.