ABSTRACT
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a serious problem in the United
States, affecting more than 3 million individuals. Recently, the Food and
Drug Administration approved 2 direct-acting, antiviral protease
inhibitors for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1, which has
greatly affected success rates. Therapy, however, remains complicated, with
a difficult medication regimen and a wide array of often debilitating side
effects possible. This article discusses the role of nurse practitioners in this
new triple agent therapy and provides them with strategies for implementing
effective education and management throughout treatment.