Impact of the incorporation of a nurse in an inflammatory bowel disease unit

Abstract Introduction Multidisciplinary units are needed because of the growing complexity and volume of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Objectives To evaluate the healthcare, economic and research impact of incorporating a nurse into the IBD unit of the Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda University Hospital. Methods We prospectively recorded the activity carried out by the nurse of the IBD unit from March 2010 to December 2014. Results During this period, healthcare demand progressively increased, with 1558 patients being attended by our unit. The healthcare provided by the nurse included 5293 electronic mails and 678 telephone calls. We estimated that this activity represented a saving of 3504 in-person medical consultations and 852 accident and emergency department visits. Other activities consisted of monitoring treatments with biological and non-biological agents (8371 laboratory tests), extraction of 342 blood samples, follow-up of 1047 diagnostic tests and consultations with other medical specialties, health education in self-administration of drugs in 114 patients, the performance of 158 granulocyte apheresis procedures, and participation in 25 research projects. Conclusion The incorporation of a specialised nurse in an IBD unit had major economic, healthcare and research benefits.