POSITION SUMMARY:

Utilizing the nursing process, coordinates and provides specialized Oncology Nursing support services to patients in an Ambulatory Care setting.

Functions as an information and education resource for the community and staff. Maintains standards of professional nursing practice. Documents complete and accurate patient information in compliance with Patient Services Department policy and other regulatory agency requirements.

Participates in continuous quality improvement activities and educational experiences in support of departmental and divisional nursing philosophy and objectives, as well as Health System initiatives.

Coordinates family involvement in assessment and treatment of the patient.

Care provided includes the assessment of the adult patient’s health status prior to infusion, administration of medications per provider order, placement, and maintenance of venous access devices, monitoring of vital signs, and response to emergency situations.

EDUCATION/TRAINING:

Graduate from an approved School of Nursing Program.

BSN is preferred but not required.

At least one year of Inpatient, Outpatient Hospital, or Oncology patient care experience required.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

Current RN licensure to practice in the State of Illinois.

Completion of Fundamentals of Infusion Therapy education course available through Infusion Nurse’s Society or equivalent; The manager will review and approve equivalent education course certificate.

Infusion Nurse (CRNI) certification preferred within three years of hire.

BI-annual CPR certification required.

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Successful completion of annual clinical, age and job specific competencies and skill verification tools required.
• Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing in a caring, considerate, and concerned manner.
• Willingness to accept responsibility. Ability to direct ancillary and assistive staff and organize work assignments.
• Teaching and leadership skills essential to the position.
• Knowledge of oncology specific pharmacology, admixture and cytotoxic side effects and policies.
• Demonstrated competency in venous access techniques

The Ambulatory RN Infusion may perform any or all these skills and responsibilities. These may include but not limited to:

• Review and act on test results (lab, x-ray)

• Review and manage communications from internal and external customers

• Initiate and monitor intravenous (IV) infusions

• Assist or perform procedures (e.g., ECGs, dressing changes)

• Provide patient education

• Execute delegation protocols

• Assist with management of urgent and emergent patient care situations

• Assist with the coordination of care across the continuum (e.g., inpatient, outpatient, home, skilled nursing facility, schools)

• Assist with the management of patients with multiple chronic health conditions, acute episodes of care, and/or behavioral health challenges while promoting and supporting prevention and wellness.

• Perform therapeutic phlebotomy.

Ongoing commitment to continuing education and learning of new therapies and skills.

Collaborates with all members of the Medical Oncology and Cancer Center team