Abstract

INTEGRATING NURSING INTERVENTIONS FOR MANAGING AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES IN EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE SETTINGS

Saadi Saad Alanazi*, Mutlaq Gatar N Alruwas, Abdullah Ibrahim Al Eissa, Khalid Saad Matar Alshammari, Abdulaziz Abdullah Mughiran Alharbi, Raud Mater Husayban Al-Mutairi

ABSTRACT

Background: Autoimmune diseases, which occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, present significant challenges to healthcare systems, especially in emergency and critical care contexts. These diseases, characterized by chronic symptoms and complex medical needs, often require comprehensive and dynamic management. The role of nursing interventions in managing autoimmune diseases, particularly in emergencies, is critical. Nursing models tailored for these conditions are essential to address the multifaceted needs of patients, including physical, psychological, and emotional support, especially in urgent care settings. Aim: The purpose of this paper is to propose structured nursing care models designed to manage autoimmune diseases in emergency and critical care environments. These models aim to improve patient outcomes through a holistic, patient-centered approach, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, prompt care, and self-management strategies that align with the unique challenges of autoimmune conditions in emergencies. Methods: This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining evidence from a systematic literature review and qualitative data collected from healthcare professionals and patients. Case studies and pilot testing are used to refine the proposed models, while metrics such as patient-reported outcomes, clinical improvement, and cost-effectiveness are evaluated to assess their impact in emergency and critical care settings. Results: Preliminary findings indicate that structured nursing care models in emergency settings, focusing on individualized care, psychological support, and interdisciplinary protocols, significantly improve symptom management and reduce healthcare costs. The incorporation of self-management tools and the use of technology to enhance patient engagement and adherence to care plans further contribute to the efficacy of these models. Conclusion: Creating and implementing structured nursing care models for managing autoimmune diseases in emergency and critical care environments is essential for addressing the unique challenges presented by these conditions. By focusing on patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and empowering patients with self-management tools, these models have the potential to improve outcomes and optimize healthcare delivery. Further research is needed to refine and validate these models, ensuring their applicability across diverse healthcare settings.

Keywords: Autoimmune diseases, nursing care models, emergency care, critical care, chronic disease management, patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, self-management strategies.