Oncology Nurse Clinician
Cancer, which can affect any organ or system in the body now ranks as the highest cause of deaths in Singapore. The diagnosis of cancer can be a devastating experience for the patients and their families as it is often viewed as a death sentence despite the advances in medicine and science, which now give a better prognosis.
The Oncology Nurse Clinician is not only a specialist nurse in cancer care, but also a "generalist" as cancer not only affects the diseased organ but also the person and his family caregivers - both emotionally and socially. The Oncology Nurse Clinician provides psycho-social support and encouragement for patients and their families during their difficult times, from the time diagnosis is made throughout the treatment phase, and often to the end of life for those with terminal disease.
The Oncology Nurse Clinician also acts as a resource person, conducts training and offers clinical consultation for the ward nurses in the care of cancer patients with complex issues. She ensures that the patient care protocols and nursing care standards are up-to-date with the rapid advancement in cancer care.
In addition to patient care and staff training, the Oncology Nurse Clinician also conducts and participates actively in nursing research to propagate continuous improvement in the care of the cancer patient.