N39 Exploring the impact of an Inflammatory Bowel Disease Biologics Nurse on the management of a biologics service

Abstract

Abstract Background Biologics nurses play a critical role in the management of patients receiving treatment for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).Their impact spans various facets of patient care and service management. Prior to December 2021 all patients who required biological therapy were reviewed by any member of the IBD nursing team. This review would entail a comprehensive history taken, screening bloods ordered and explained and a thorough ex[planation of the risks and benefits of the medication including a detailed explanation of the use of the drug. The nurses were also responsible for the preparation of biologic prescriptions and checking of bloods. With a number of nurses undertaking this can lead to duplication of work or patients not receiving medication timely. Methods A business was written to secure funding for extra nurses and was unsuccessful. At the time of the Covid pandemic workload escalated to an extent that the current IBD Helpline and nurse led clinics could not continue in their present form. Resulting in a suspension of nurse clinics which led to a backlog of reviewing patients who required biological therapy, thus delaying their treatment. A meeting was convened with the senior management team and staffing numbers were increased resulting in the development of a biologics nurse. Results A band 6 biologics nurse was employed who completely transformed the biologics service. One person completing a role independently assumes total responsibility for all of the tasks annexed to the role. This involved patients education and support, monitoring and assessment of patients, coordination and communication with patients and relevant departments. It also included quality improvement, patient advocacy, emotional support to patients and patient empowerment/ One person responsible for this role has now led to a reduction in complaints, more timely treatment, less missed treatment appointments and a single point of contact for patients and departments. Our biologics nurse has not only achieved all of these roles but has been fundamental in the biologic switch to more coast effective biological therapies. Conclusion The impact of a dedicated biologics nurse in an IBD service is significant. They enhance the overall quality of care, improve patient outcomes, and contribute to the efficient functioning of the service by ensuring proper management, patient education, and support throughout the treatment journey. The team have had an increased number of praise and favourable comments from patients, families and departments that interact with our service such as the Medical Day Unit. The introduction of this role has been invaluable to our service has increased to such an amount that the team could do with a second nurse in post.