Meet the MS nurse, Catriona

Meet Catriona, an MS nurse from the Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust

 Hi, I am part of a team of multiple sclerosis (MS) nurses that work in the community covering South East Hampshire. We provide face-to-face and telephone clinic appointments, visit people with MS at home that are unable to come to clinic, attend local MS support groups, monitor the bloods results of people on disease modifying therapy and provide phone and email support.

What aspects of your role benefits people with MS the most?

 Being able to offer a responsive point of contact that is easily accessible to all. Between the team we have a wide range of skills and knowledge that helps us to support people with MS on our caseload.

What has been the most exciting development in this field in recent years?

 The continued research and development of treatment for MS.

What achievements are you most proud of?

 In 2023 as a team we were finalists for the Star Awards within the trust. This is Southern Health’s annual recognition programme for teams that go above and beyond.

What advice would you give someone with MS to prepare for an appointment?

 Make a list of the top three points to discuss. This way we can ensure the most important points are identified. If there is time left after this, we can discuss anything else. This really helps to structure the appointment and ensures you get the most out of it.

What one piece of advice would you give to people with MS?

Having completed the training for fatigue management I would recommend, where you are able, daily exercise as this is proven to help combat fatigue. It goes without saying that this will look different for each individual.