Munchausen syndrome by proxy: a review, case study, and nursing implications

Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP) is a serious form of child abuse that often remains undetected for years. Victims (and often their siblings) suffer serious physiological and psychological damage and sometimes even death. Nurses educated about this syndrome can have significant impact on its earlier diagnosis and intervention. This article presents a literature review and case study and concludes with a discussion of nursing implications including the effect of MSBP on nursing staff.