A thorough assessment provides baseline information about the person’s physical status and level of function. Periodic reevaluation and outcomes assessment allow for comparison of function over time and determining if the intervention used was effective. 

There are no symptoms, physical findings or laboratory tests that can determine if you have MS. Several strategies are used to determine if you meet the criteria for a diagnosis of MS, and to rule out other possible causes of whatever symptoms you are experiencing. These strategies include a careful medical history, a neurologic exam and various tests.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a tool that offers the most sensitive non-invasive way of imaging the brain, spinal cord, or other areas of the body. It is the preferred imaging method to help establish a diagnosis of MS and to monitor the course of the disease. This is done annually or based on individual progression.

Comprehensive MS care is part — but not all — of your health. Like the general population, you are subject to medical problems that have nothing to do with your MS. Regular visits are essential along with referrals to different specialists.

​

Symptom management is an essential component of comprehensive MS care. While disease management therapies reduce disease activity and slow progression, it is the ongoing management of symptoms that allows people to function in their daily lives with optimal comfort, Therefore, assessing and managing MS symptoms iare integral part of the care.

Depression, anxiety and other mood changes.  Mood disorders are more common in people with MS than in the general population—in part as a reaction to the challenges of a chronic illness, but also because of changes in the brain and in the immune system that are a part of MS. Therefore Assessment of mood is part of MS care.

Nurse coaching is a skilled, purposeful, results-oriented and structured client interaction that is provide for the purpose of promoting achievement of client goals (Dossey, Hess, et. al, 2013). Coaches work with the whole person using principles and modalities that integrate body-mind-emotion-spirit-environment to promote health, wellness, and wellbeing while they facilitate their client’s growth and healing. 

Cognitive deficits are highly common in MS. Cognitive issues such as, memory loss, processing information speed, concentration, attention and word finding difficulties. Each client will be screened using the Processing Speed Test (PST). Results will be discussed and managed as needed. 

The nurse coaching process involves six simultaneously occurring steps:

1. Establish the relationship and assess client’s readiness for change

2. Identify client opportunities and issues

3. Assist client in establishing goals

4. Structure the coaching interaction

5. Empower clients to reach their goals

6. Assist clients in determining the extent to which their goals were achieved