With May being Oncology Nursing Month, there’s no better time to explain the role of oncology nurses – and recognize the invaluable support and expertise they provide.
What Is an Oncology Nurse?
Oncology nurses are a core member of the cancer care team and typically serve as the first line of communication for a patient. They care for and educate people with cancer and provide vital support to oncologists and other clinicians. Oncology nurses work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, radiation therapy facilities, and practice in disciplines including surgical, radiation, medical or gynecologic oncology. Oncology nurses demonstrate deep knowledge and clinical expertise and compassion and empathy – and are critical in supporting patients as they navigate cancer.
What Does an Oncology Nurse Do?
An oncology nurse’s responsibilities are wide-ranging and vary with a given healthcare setting, but include the following:
- Reviewing a patient’s history
- Monitoring patients’ health and wellbeing throughout diagnosis and treatment
- Helping patients understand their condition, treatment, and what to expect
- Explaining complex concepts and terms and answering questions
- Monitoring diagnostic tests and results
- Administering medication and cancer treatments
- Developing patient care plans with the patient and their care team
- Helping with symptom management
Oncology nurses are by a patient’s side throughout their treatment, coordinating care and advocating for their patients. Because of their consistent, professional presence, patients often form a close bond with them – and vice versa.
SWWO Thanks Our Oncology Nurses
At SWWO, we are humbled by the passion and dedication of our team of oncology nurses. They are a constant source of strength and comfort – and are always there to help our patients navigate difficult moments or celebrate victories. We owe endless gratitude to these individuals for helping us better connect with and understand our patients and providing a unique perspective that walks the line between science and advocacy.
This Oncology Nursing Month, let’s celebrate oncology nurses by:
- Writing a note, baking, or creating a display
- Hosting a cancer education event or program
- Nominating a nurse for an ONS award
Or one of the many other options outlined on the Oncology Nursing Society website.
A little thank you goes a long way, so join us in extending our gratitude toward the exceptional oncology nurses at SWWO. To learn more about our team and our capabilities, get in touch!
TESTIMONIALS
“She made sure I understood everything. If I had questions after hours, I could always call her on her cell. I never felt like I was a burden. I know Dr. Finkelstein is here for me.”
“I was very impressed when I met Dr. Finkelstein. She was relatable. She has two young children and a career. I have two young children and a career.”
“They were very empathetic, very knowledgeable, very efficient and they are my friends today. I love them all. I come in here just to say hi to everybody and Dr. Finkelstein. I have complete and total trust in her and her abilities. Everything she has told me and done is just above board and I have complete faith in her.”
“I was so comforted and excited to have someone listen and hear what I had to say and actually supported me. I appreciated the balance immensely of true knowledge and willingness to be open to what I was finding in regard to alternative medicine.”
“I’m grateful that Karen came into my life. She has so much integrity and love for her patients and if you end up here you are in a good place.”
OUR MISSION
To help women triumph over their gynecologic and oncology needs in a warm and nurturing way.