Managing chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives) in primary care
To enable you to recognise the signs and symptoms of chronic spontaneous urticaria, and the effect the condition may have on patients’ quality of life
To improve your awareness of the management and treatment options for chronic spontaneous urticaria in primary care and specialist services
To understand the aspects of optimal nursing care for patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria
Chronic spontaneous urticaria is characterised by the spontaneous appearance of hives or wheals, and/or angioedema, lasting for at least six weeks. The condition may be associated with significant physical and emotional burden for patients. Nurses have an important role in the differential diagnosis of chronic spontaneous urticaria, assessing patients’ quality of life, providing advice on non-pharmacological measures, monitoring the patient’s response to treatment, and referring the patient for specialist care, where appropriate. This article describes the presentation, diagnosis and management of chronic spontaneous urticaria in primary care.
