The role of clinical nurse specialists in the management of patients with bladder pain syndrome

Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a complex and chronic condition with no known cure. Diagnosis is generally based on the elimination of other identifiable disorders, and symptom management often involves a plethora of behaviour and lifestyle modifications. Consequently, BPS can have a profound effect on a patient's psychosocial wellbeing and quality of life. Clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) are core members of multidisciplinary teams that care for patients with BPS and aim to provide them with improvements in their symptoms, which can be challenging. By assessing, treating and supporting patients with personalised symptom management and treatment strategies, CNSs can help to improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing this often-debilitating condition.