A new guideline on the identification, treatment and management of bipolar disorder in primary and secondary care was recently introduced by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Clare Taylor and colleagues highlight the contribution nurses can make to its implementation

The NICE guideline on bipolar disorder should be read by all nurses who work with people with bipolar disorder. Depending on whether they are working with children, adolescents, women of child-bearing age or with older adults, nurses will need to consider specific advice which is contained within the general guideline. Nurses in leadership positions must help implement and disseminate the guideline, and NICE has published advice to assist with implementation.