Find out if you have what it takes for a career as an IBD Nurse Specialist. The effective management and treatment of Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis requires an expert level of knowledge from a dedicated IBD Nurse Specialist. As well as providing clinical care for patients, an IBD Nurse Specialist is a mentor, emotional supporter and an advocate for better care.
An IBD Nurse Specialist provides expert clinical care and management. They also help educate others and conduct research to make sure they are well informed of the latest developments in IBD care.
Working as an IBD specialist nurse is an incredibly rewarding job. You really get to know your patients, you get to watch them through their journey and when you manage to make a difference to people's lives you just can’t really put that into words.
Lisa Younge, Consultant Nurse for Inflammatory Bowel Disease, St Mark’s Hospital
Crohn's and Colitis are challenging conditions and having the right attitude is essential. Crohn's and Colitis are both emotionally and physically demanding for patients so connecting with patient is an important part of the support an IBD Nurse Specialist provides.
You will also need to have an appreciation and open-mindedness for the effects that the disease can have on areas like self-esteem, sexuality, body image, mental health, and social isolation.
Common sense, compassion and a good sense of humour are essential qualities in an IBD Nurse Specialist.
I still learn new things every day from patients, so it's important to realise that everyone's nursing journey is different. Everyone has a lot of background before going into the IBD field, but a lot of those skills are transferable and there's not one particular pathway that you have to follow.
Niamh McCabrey, IBD Nurse Specialist
Crohn’s & Colitis UK work closely with IBD Nurse Specialists to promote better care and an end to the stigma that surrounds IBD. We’ve come a long way, and nurses are often on the front line of our campaigns.
To get a good idea of the daily life of an IBD Nurse Specialist, take a look at our blog following a week in the life of Sister Kay.
For more information on becoming a nurse, find out more on the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) website:
Become a nurse | Royal College of Nurse | Royal College of Nursing
Further Reading
Keep in touch with us a receive news, updates and opportunities to get involved for healthcare professionals.
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We know it can be difficult to live with, or support someone living with these conditions. But you’re not alone. We provide up-to-date, evidence-based information and can support you to live well with Crohn’s or Colitis.
Our helpline team can help by:
Providing information about Crohn’s and Colitis.
Listening and talking through your situation.
Helping you to find support from others in the Crohn’s and Colitis community.
Providing details of other specialist organisations.
Please be aware we’re not medically or legally trained. We cannot provide detailed financial or benefits advice or specialist emotional support.
Please contact us via telephone, email or LiveChat - 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (except English bank holidays).
If you need specific medical advice about your condition, your GP or IBD team will be best placed to help.
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