092 Eliciting the hidden symptoms in multiple sclerosis. Issue 6 (27th May 2022) - Kurup, Meenakshi
Abstract : Purpose: The hidden symptoms of Multiple sclerosis (MS) adversely impact on patients' quality of life. NICE recommends that "service professionals in regular contact with people with MS, should consider in a systematic way whether a 'hidden' problem is contributing to their clinical situation." Our aim was to compare trust practice at Walkergate Park Hospital with NICE CG186 guidelines by determining the number of hidden MS symptoms addressed by MS specialists in the outpatient setting. Methods: A retrospective audit was performed from August to October 2018 on 126 MS patients seen in 34 clinics at Walkergate Park Hospital. Data was collected from clinic letters and MS review proformas going one year back. Results: The mean number of clinic visits for patients within their most recent year of follow up was 1.76 (SD 0.709). The most elicited hidden symptom was bladder symptoms, followed by bowel symptoms discussed in 91.3% and 90.5% of consultations, respectively. The least commonly elicited hidden symptom was on sex and relationships, followed by advanced care planning (addressed in 16.0% and 23.8% of consultations, respectively). On average, 62.6% (SD 25.1) of 17 hidden symptoms were addressed. Conclusion: Hidden symptoms may not be volunteered by patients and it is important they are addressed in the clinical context. Areas for improvement include the discussion of sex and relationships and advance care planning to ensure quality of care for MS patients. meenakshi3@hotmail.co.uk 71