Chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is a debilitating illness that affects many systems of the body, particularly the nervous and immune systems. The condition affects all age, racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. This article focuses on the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary to recognise, assess, manage and support patients with CFS/ME. The principles of management and rehabilitation can be applied by nurses and other healthcare professionals irrespective of the clinical setting and context.

Chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is a debilitating illness that affects many systems of the body, particularly the nervous and immune systems. The condition affects all age, racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. This article focuses on the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary to recognise, assess, manage and support patients with CFS/ME. The principles of management and rehabilitation can be applied by nurses and other healthcare professionals irrespective of the clinical setting and context.