Scleroderma: living with unpredictability

Every individual with scleroderma is unique. Symptoms vary in severity, duration, and effect on the individual. Many with scleroderma live an unpredictable life, as they struggle to understand the condition and to manage the unpredictable symptoms. Because of rarity of the condition, many nurses know little about scleroderma, its symptoms, and how to manage them. Nurses should equip themselves with information about rare conditions and not shy away from asking individuals about their condition and how best to help them. It is essential for occupational health nurses to appreciate the individuality of the condition and discuss workers' unique symptoms and care needs with them. Equipped with knowledge, caring for clients with scleroderma can be a rewarding experience for both the nurses and the client. In the work setting, the occupational health nurse can provide leadership to assist the individual with scleroderma to live as productive a life as possible. Nurses in all settings, hospital, community, and work, can do much to assist individuals with the management of chronic conditions such as scleroderma.