THE ONCOLOGY CNS ROLE

The Oncology CNS will have a central role in coordinating systemic anti-cancer treatment for Oncology patients. They will be responsible for providing specialist nursing care to patients who are newly diagnosed and patients on active Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT). The Oncology CNS will support and educate oncology patients and their families about their SACT and managing side effects. They will also provide psychosocial support to these patients.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Provide a specialist oncology nursing care, advice, information and support for patients with a cancer diagnosis who require SACT.
• Provide education and support to newly diagnosed cancer patients and their families.
• Attend Oncology Consultant Clinics and coordinate patients who require SACT.
• Identify and agree appropriate referral pathways for patients with a cancer diagnosis.
• Work closely with Oncology Clinical Nurse Managers and Surgical CNSs regarding patients’ treatment and follow up.
• Have strong working relationships with the Medical Oncology Team, Oncology Pharmacy, Dietitians, Social Work Department and Psych-Oncology.
• Liaise with external hospitals regarding patients’ concurrent treatment modalities such as radiotherapy.
• Attend Multi-Disciplinary Team meetings to discuss patients’ treatment regimens, interim radiology results and SACT side effects.
• Be a strong advocate for oncology patients and their families and ensure care is timely and patient centred.
• Promote and empower patients and family members to actively participate in their own care.
• Manage the Nurse Led Oral Anti-Cancer Medication (OAM) Clinic in accordance with National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) OAM Model of Care Recommendations.
• Be proficient undertaking a comprehensive holistic patient assessment using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE).
• Ensure patient prerequisite tests, treatment and follow up appointment are coordinated in a safe and efficient manner.
• Ensure patients and families are comprehensively informed during their continuum of oncology care.
• Use all available resources effectively and economically.
• Promote a safe clinical environment with due regard to health and safety and risk management strategies.
• Maintain appropriate and accurate documentation of all patient care.
• Continually review and evaluate the Oncology CNS service to ensure excellence in patient care.
• Be an active member of Oncology Nursing professional groups, attend oncology conferences to keep up to date with the latest evidence based practice.
• Establish and maintain a database of Oncology patients with a cancer diagnosis.
• Maintain a record of clinically relevant data aligned to NCCP Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) as directed and advised by the Director of Nursing (DON).