Protocol for administration and management of chrysotherapy (gold therapy).

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disease, characterized by polyarticular inflammation, joint destruction, deformity and loss of function. Chrysotherapy is indicated in documented cases of rheumatoid arthritis in which other methods of treatment including rest, physical therapy, analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories have failed. Clinical guidelines for the administration and management of chrysotherapy are presented for the nurse practitioner providing care for patients in which gold therapy has been prescribed by a rheumatologist. Careful initial assessment, follow-up and education are necessary for the effective treatment of patients receiving gold therapy.