The use of phototherapy is not new to Hopkins Bayview. Under the department of dermatology, the Phototherapy Center has played a major role in providing dermatological care since 1977. With the addition of the narrow-band UVB light source, the center now is able to offer an even wider spectrum of therapies that include Psoralen and UVA (PUVA) and ultraviolet light B. The center is staffed by two registered nurses, who are highly skilled at assessing phototherapy patients, providing safe care and educating patients and their families about skin diseases. Judith Warson, BSN, RN, has a long-standing collaboration with leaders in phototherapy and stays on the cutting edge of dermatological care. Her collegues at the Phototherapy Center provide direct nursing care for dermatology patients in the clinic and the center. "When the patient's psoriasis or eczema is widespread over the body, it is almost impossible to maintain a regimen of topical medications, which can be messy and time consuming," says Judith Warson, BSN, RN, clinical coordinator of the department of dermatology. "These patients benefit from a trial of phototherapy. In most cases, it clears the skin." For more information about phototherapy, or to make an appointment with a dermatologist, call 410-550-0504. |