부산대학교 도서관

This chapter discusses the vital role played by nurses in the aiding and supporting patients with ALS and their families. Nurses are often generalists, addressing varied and complex needs of the patients and their families. From the time of diagnosis to the terminal stage of illness, nurses provide care and guidance to ALS patients and families facing ALS. Their role does not stop at providing care and guidance as they may be asked to give emotional and psychological aid, education about the disease process, referrals to community agencies, help sorting through insurance and governmental regulations, and help explaining the practical aspects of different interventions and treatments such as feeding tubes, non-invasive ventilation, and symptom management. In addition, nurses in the multidisciplinary team are often responsible for the general coordination and management of the team members and clinic organization as well as uphold the principles of excellence in the conduct of ALS centres.