Position Summary

The Oncology Registered Nurse is responsible for providing safe, evidence-based nursing care to oncology patients across the continuum of treatment. The RN utilizes critical thinking and clinical judgment to assess, plan, implement, coordinate, and evaluate individualized patient care while ensuring compliance with organizational policies, regulatory standards, and professional nursing

Principal Responsibilities

Patient Assessment and Care Coordination

* Perform comprehensive nursing assessments and develop individualized plans of care.
* Assess and manage patient pain utilizing appropriate pain assessment tools and reassessment guidelines.
* Monitor patient response to medications and treatments and report adverse reactions promptly.
* Identify discharge planning needs and coordinate appropriate resources.
* Assess patient learning needs, functional status, and barriers to education.
* Provide age-appropriate care while recognizing the unique needs of adult and older adult oncology patients.

Clinical Practice

* Safely administer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, infusion therapies, and blood products in accordance with organizational policies and evidence-based practice.
* Demonstrate competency in oncology nursing procedures and specialized equipment.
* Administer medications safely and accurately.
* Monitor patients for treatment-related complications and intervene appropriately.
* Identify and report patient safety and risk management concerns.
* Maintain competency in blood administration and infusion therapy.

Documentation

* Complete accurate and timely clinical documentation within the electronic medical record.
* Document patient assessments, nursing interventions, treatment responses, and changes in condition.
* Verify physician orders and complete required documentation according to hospital policy.
* Complete depression screenings and psychosocial assessments.
* Assess emotional distress and coordinate referrals to Social Work when indicated.
* Maintain documentation that supports continuity of care and regulatory compliance.

Care Coordination

* Coordinate patient care across the interdisciplinary team.
* Carry out physician orders accurately and efficiently.
* Coordinate diagnostic testing and treatment appointments.
* Prioritize patient care based on clinical condition and changing needs.
* Provide patient and family education regarding diagnosis, treatment plans, medications, symptom management, and follow-up care.
* Collaborate with pharmacy, social work, nutrition services, case management, and other disciplines.

Professional Practice

* Maintain clinical competency through continuing education and annual competency assessments.
* Serve as a mentor and resource to nursing staff.
* Participate in quality improvement initiatives, committee work, and departmental meetings.
* Demonstrate accountability, professionalism, and sound clinical judgment.
* Identify opportunities for professional growth and ongoing education.

Patient Experience

* Deliver compassionate, respectful, and patient-centered care.
* Respond promptly to patient and family needs.
* Maintain patient dignity, privacy, and confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA guidelines.
* Foster positive relationships with patients, families, and colleagues.

Safety and Quality

* Maintain a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff.
* Follow infection prevention practices and standard precautions.
* Adhere to National Patient Safety Goals.
* Assess patients for fall risk and implement appropriate interventions.
* Promote a culture of safety and quality improvement.

Patient Advocacy

* Advocate for patient and family needs throughout the continuum of care.
* Communicate changes in patient condition to physicians and the interdisciplinary team.
* Include patients and families in care planning and shared decision-making.
* Facilitate communication regarding treatment plans, procedures, and clinical progress.

Collaboration

* Collaborate with physicians, advanced practice providers, and multidisciplinary teams to provide coordinated oncology care.
* Demonstrate flexibility by supporting other departments as needed.
* Participate in clinical initiatives and evidence-based practice improvements.