Rheumatology nurses are an integral member of the healthcare team who treat patients with rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, vasculitis, the spondyloarthropathies, systemic lupus, and other autoimmune diseases. Their specialized knowledge and skills help both patients and rheumatologists to create an interlocking network of patients and medical professionals. As such, rheumatology nurses manage healthcare teams that integrate patient care and patient education with professional expertise and research.

ANA's new guide to contemporary rheumatology nursing practice contains up-to-date information for RNs and APRNs practicing in this nursing specialty and defines the level of nursing practice and professional performance for rheumatology nurses at all practice levels and in all settings. This is a must have resource for new nurses entering the specialty and the lifelong education of rheumatology nurse practitioners.