Introduction

The fertility nurse is an essential member of a multi-professional team whose focus is to ensure the delivery of quality care to patients. Information regarding ovulation induction (OI) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) is introduced to the patient by multiple team members, but most importantly by the nurse. The nurse works with the physicians and other team members, and becomes the primary advocate for the patient.

After the physician designs a plan of treatment based on his or her initial assessment and diagnosis, it is the nurse who coordinates and implements the plan of treatment. During the planning phase, the nurse becomes the primary caregiver and has the majority of interaction with the patient. The nurse's role is to direct couples through their treatment by explaining and defining all procedures and instructions clearly and concisely. It is very important for the nurse to be knowledgeable, compassionate, confident and empathetic.

The nurse implements the physician's plan of treatment by formulating and reviewing the OI patient's cycle calendar, ordering and instructing on the administration of oral or injectable medications, and educating on potential risks and/or side effects. The nurse teaches the patient the purpose of each step in the treatment protocol. The nurse reviews results of ultrasound and labs, and then communicates these results with the physician so as to instruct the patient with her plan of treatment. The nurse has an important role in teaching the patient regarding ovulation predictor kits.

Occasionally the nurse's role includes discussion of costs involved.