Celebrating Oncology Nursing Month
Lillie Shockney
Co-Founder, AONN+ Co- Developer, Johns Hopkins Work Stride-- Managing Cancer at Work at JH Healthcare Solutions
This month, we are celebrating Oncology Nursing Month and all oncology nursing professionals who are working in this profound field of medicine! This, of course, includes our oncology nurse navigators who play an instrumental role in providing support, education, care coordination, and navigation across the continuum of care.
I believe that oncology nurse navigators have one of THE best professional roles in nursing today. They get to connect with newly diagnosed patients very early on and remain at their side through each phase of cancer treatment. Most nurse navigators were previously infusion nurses, clinic nurses, or inpatient hospital nurses. Though these roles are rewarding and dynamic, I know from personal experience, as well as the tremendous outpouring of e-mails I receive from clinical oncology nurses who have transitioned into nurse navigators, this is the most fulfilling nursing role of all.
The care of cancer patients could not happen without oncology nurse navigators shepherding the way, ensuring the patient’s voice is heard. Navigators empower patients to actively and confidently participate in decision-making about treatment options. Throughout the entire cancer journey, oncology navigators provide patient-centered care, identify and eliminate barriers to treatment, move across the continuum of care efficiently and effectively, and ensure that patients receive their treatment within the evidence-based treatment guidelines.
It is hard to believe that I co-founded the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators (AONN+) 11 years ago and now we have roughly 8900 members, each proud to be navigating cancer patients. Though some days may be tough, like when we lose a patient, we can take pride in knowing we helped them preserve quality of life through to end of life.
As nurse navigators, we see hundreds of newly diagnosed cancer patients each year. However, these patients only see 1 of us. They remember us forever, so keep doing the wonderful work you were destined to do for patients as their nurse navigators, and know that AONN+ supports you, is proud of you, and is celebrating your achievements in this unique nursing role that has become your calling.
Chief Clinical Officer
1 年Lillie, I join you in recognizing Oncology Nurses everywhere! I especially want to celebrate our leaders in oncology nurse navigation, like the pioneers that work with me at Navvisa. Thank you!!
Specialized in Rare Disease including Oncology/Hematology Area/Regional Business Director. Significant experience in building strong patient centric teams, training, and collaboration
3 年Oncology Nurses are truly amazing! Thank you for all you do!
US Field Access Team Lead
3 年#earthangels