What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cancer Center Registered Nurse position at McKenzie Health?
Job Summary: The Cancer Center Registered Nurse (RN) provides specialized nursing care to patients diagnosed with cancer. This role involves assessing patient needs, administering treatments, monitoring responses to therapies, and providing education and emotional support to patients and their families throughout the cancer care continuum in both clinic and infusion settings.
Key Responsibilities:
- Patient Assessment: Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs related to their cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- Treatment Administration: Administer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other cancer treatments according to established protocols. Monitor patients for adverse reactions and manage side effects effectively.
- Care Coordination: Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, nurse navigators, social workers, and pharmacists, to develop and implement individualized care plans.
- Patient Education: Provide education to patients and their families about cancer treatments, side effects, and supportive care options. Empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.
- Emotional Support: Offer compassionate support and counseling to patients and families, addressing their concerns and emotional needs throughout the treatment process.
- Monitoring and Documentation: Monitor patients’ vital signs, laboratory results, and overall progress. Document all assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately in electronic health records.
- Advocacy: Act as a patient advocate, ensuring that patients' rights and preferences are respected throughout their care journey.
- Quality Improvement: Participate in quality assurance and improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and safety within the oncology unit.
- Emergency Response: Be prepared to respond to emergencies related to patient care, including administering life-saving measures as needed.
- Education: Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (ADN or BSN) from an accredited nursing program.
- Licensure: Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.
- Experience: Previous nursing experience in oncology or a related field is preferred, but new graduates with a strong interest in oncology are encouraged to apply.
- Certifications: Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification is preferred or encouraged within a certain timeframe.
- Skills:
- Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Proficient in electronic health record (EHR) systems.
- Knowledge of oncology medications and treatment protocols