The state of the science in the prevention and management of osteoarthritis: experts recommend ways to increase nurses' awareness and knowledge of osteoarthritis.

Overview

In July 2011 a symposium on osteoarthritis convened experts in many areas-nursing, epidemiology, rheumatology, public policy, geriatrics, pharmacotherapy, physical therapy, and complementary modalities-to discuss the importance of nurses in reducing the disability caused by osteoarthritis. The planning committee included representatives from AJN, the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses, and the Hospital for Special Surgery. Symposium attendees recommended ways in which nurses could take on greater leadership roles in research, policy, education, and clinical practice for the early diagnosis and management of this prevalent condition.