Vital Role of Oncology Nursing: A Review

Giulia Fiumana^*
*Correspondence: Giulia Fiumana, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy, Email:

Keywords

Digital learning • Virtual reality • Implanted port-A catheter • Nurses

Introduction

Oncology nursing is a specialized field of nursing that focuses on providing care to patients who are diagnosed with cancer. Oncology nurses work with patients across the cancer care continuum, from diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship or end-of-life care. They collaborate with physicians, other healthcare professionals and patients and their families to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan that meets the unique needs of each patient. Oncology nurses provide care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, outpatient treatment centers and hospice care facilities. They are involved in all aspects of cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, symptom management, psychosocial support and end-of-life care.

Oncology nursing is a specialized field of nursing that involves providing care and support to individuals with cancer. Oncology nurses are highly trained and skilled professionals who work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics and community health centers. They provide a wide range of services, including symptom management, medication administration, emotional support and patient education. Oncology nursing is a rapidly evolving field, with new treatments and technologies being developed all the time. As a result, oncology nurses must be constantly learning and adapting to new techniques and therapies in order to provide the best possible care to their patients [1].

One of the primary roles of an oncology nurse is to manage the symptoms that are commonly associated with cancer and cancer treatment. This may include managing pain, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Oncology nurses may also provide support to patients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other emotional or psychological symptoms related to their diagnosis. In addition to managing symptoms, oncology nurses are also responsible for administering medications and other treatments to their patients. This may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Oncology nurses must be highly skilled in administering these treatments, as they can be very complex and require a high degree of precision.

Literature Review

Oncology nurses play a critical role in the care of cancer patients. Their responsibilities vary depending on the patient's stage of cancer, treatment and individual needs. Some of the key roles and responsibilities of oncology nurses include:

Patient assessment: Oncology nurses are responsible for conducting a thorough patient assessment to gather information about the patient's symptoms, medical history and treatment plan. They also monitor vital signs and other clinical indicators to assess the patient's response to treatment and identify any complications or side effects [2].

Education: Oncology nurses educate patients and their families about the disease, treatment options and self-care measures to promote wellness and prevent complications. They also provide information about community resources and support services that can help patients and their families navigate the cancer journey.

Coordination of care: Oncology nurses collaborate with physicians, other healthcare professionals and patients and their families to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan that meets the unique needs of each patient. They also coordinate care across different healthcare settings to ensure continuity of care [3].

Why is oncology nursing important?

Oncology nursing is an essential component of cancer care. Cancer is a complex disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach to treatment and oncology nurses play a critical role in the cancer care team. They provide holistic care to patients, addressing not only their physical symptoms but also their emotional, social and spiritual needs. Oncology nurses are also responsible for educating patients and their families about the disease and treatment options, empowering them to take an active role in their care. They provide emotional support and counseling to help patients cope with the physical and emotional effects of cancer and its treatment [4].

Discussion

Oncology nurses also play a critical role in symptom management and palliative care. Cancer and its treatment can cause a range of symptoms that can be debilitating and affect the patient's quality of life. Oncology nurses work to relieve these symptoms and improve the patient's comfort and overall well-being. Another important aspect of oncology nursing is patient education. Oncology nurses play a key role in helping patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options and the potential side effects of their treatment. They may also provide guidance on nutrition, exercise and other lifestyle factors that can help improve a patient's overall health and wellbeing. Oncology nurses may work with patients at various stages of their cancer journey, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. They may also work with patients who are in remission or who have completed their treatment and are transitioning back to their normal lives. In all cases, oncology nurses are dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to their patients and their families.

One of the most challenging aspects of oncology nursing is dealing with end-of-life care. Oncology nurses may work with patients who are in the final stages of their illness, providing palliative care and support to help them manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life. They may also work with families who are grieving the loss of a loved one, providing emotional support and guidance as they navigate this difficult time. Oncology nursing is a rewarding but challenging field, requiring a high degree of skill, knowledge and compassion. Nurses who work in oncology must be able to provide expert care and support to their patients while also managing their own emotions and coping with the emotional toll that comes with caring for individuals with cancer. To become an oncology nurse, individuals typically need to complete a nursing degree program and gain experience working in a variety of healthcare settings. Additional training and certification may also be required to specialize in oncology nursing.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of oncology nursing in the overall care of patients with cancer. As a result, many healthcare organizations and institutions are investing in oncology nursing education and training and there is a growing demand for skilled oncology nurses in a variety of settings [5,6].

Conclusion

In conclusion, oncology nursing is a vital and rapidly evolving field that plays a crucial role in the care and support of individuals with cancer. Oncology nurses are highly skilled professionals who provide a wide range of services, including symptom management, medication administration, emotional support and patient education. They work with patients at various stages of their cancer journey, providing expert care and support while also managing their own emotions and coping with the challenges of caring for individuals with cancer. With the growing demand for skilled oncology nurses, this is an exciting time to be entering the field of oncology nursing.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

Neither author has any conflicts of interest to declare.

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