Philosophy Of An Oncology Nurse

Nursing Philosophy of an Oncology Nurse

Oncology nursing is a science that is practiced as an art. It is the combination of delivering patient-centered care, applying scientific knowledge, and most importantly, mastering the art of genuine caring through the application of carative factors. Being an Oncology Nurse means being a part of a profession that is not only highly skilled, but also exceptionally caring. The Oncology Nurse administers complex chemotherapy regimens, guides patients through daily radiation treatments, and cares for those whose bodies and minds are forever changed by cancer. Oncology nurses often participate in prevention and screening programs, educate the newly diagnosed and support patients through their treatment

The Oxford Dictionary (2014) defines a profession as “a paid occupation, especially one that involves prolonged training and a formal qualification.” Oncology nurses are trained in many areas of cancer care including chemotherapy and biotherapy administration guidelines, radiation therapy, and palliative care. They are registered and regulated by their State’s Board of Nursing and may also obtain National Certification in their specialty. Members of the nursing profession may also be advanced practitioners, researchers, theorists, and professors. Public opinion of nurses is top-ranking year after year. Nurses repeatedly have the highest ratings for honesty and ethical standards, rating higher than teachers, medical doctors, police officers and clergy (Gallup,

Acute care of the cancer patient often includes physical assessments, complex medication administration, central line management, and condition monitoring. Although it is important for the nurse to provide skilled care in managing chemotherapy infusions and coordinating radiation treatments, it is just as important to be caring. Patients do not tend to appreciate the way the nurse titrates a Rituxan infusion per protocol. Instead, patients remember the nurse who takes the time to sit down at the bedside, offering a warm hand or listening ear.

Summary

Oncology care has changed tremendously in the past decade. At the heart of cancer care are oncology nurses applying nursing science to the art of nursing. Growth in the nursing profession has made it difficult to clearly define differences in medical and nursing practice, but public opinion consistently values nurses’ honesty and ethical standards. It is important for nurses to provide patient-centered care and act as patient advocates. Implementing evidenced-based research into nursing care has improved patient outcomes while the application of Watson’s carative factors to nursing practice provides nurses the opportunity to develop the art of genuine