Young nursing staff sitting around table listening to presentation

High Quality Oncology Nursing in the Community

Most cancer care occurs in community health systems, yet academic health systems (which care for 20 percent of cancer patients) have robust comprehensive programs and expertise. Many small or rural community-based oncology practices and inpatient units have limited access to resources for quality improvement and professional development.

Creating a bridge between a community health system and an academic health system provides access to expert oncology nursing, advanced technology, education, and resources. By implementing standards, providing resources to independent institutions, and requiring a multi-dimensional approach, local practices improve upon their quality of care.

The Cancer Care Network (CCN) offers education opportunities and ensures best practices with the guidance of professional organizations such as Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN®), Infusion Nursing Society (INS), and more.

Provider and Nursing Education

A wide variety of educational options are available to maintain and enhance best practices for providers, nurses, and other key personnel. Educational opportunities are provided on both virtual and in-person platforms. An ongoing review of needs assessments provides a framework for programs. Nursing education and professional development include but are not limited to:

Inpatient Oncology Care

  • Preparation of inpatient nurses for oncology admissions, assessment, and symptom management for patients undergoing treatment

Oncologic Emergencies

  • Recognition, assessment, and nursing management of oncologic emergencies

Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Review Courses

  • Review classes in preparation for ONS chemotherapy, biotherapy, and oncology nursing certifications

Quarterly Educational Video Conferences

  • Developed by the nurse educator, in partnership with UCDH nursing departments such as the Center for Nursing Science, Center for Professional Practice of Nursing (CPPN), to promote Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)

Safe Handling

  • Departmental training on safe handling of chemotherapy drug waste, excreta, chemotherapy spill management, and appropriate personal protective equipment

Skills/Simulation Labs

Transition to Oncology

  • Two-day inter-professional course featuring an overview of cancer basics, treatment, symptom management, and oncology nursing standards of care

Vascular Access

  • Care and management of Vascular Access Devices (VAD) to include prevention strategies and management of VAD complications

Virtual Tumor Boards

  • Using state-of-the-art technology, teams of specialists meet in video conferences to share medical information and collaborate on treatment options

For more information, contact Celia Pena, Oncology Clinical Nurse Educator, via email or (916) 734-0462.