November 12, 2014
Colleen Campbell – NP, MN CON©
Typical Day of the Nurse Practitioner at the
Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Program, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre
The most rewarding, and yet most frustrating part of my role within the ambulatory cancer program is; there is no typical day.
I run an NP-led survivorship clinic for patients whom are complete the adjuvant (curative chemotherapy and/or radiation) portion of their treatment. This evidence based model of care places the right provider at the right time. The clinic provides a holistic approach to survivorship; not only monitoring for disease recurrence and late effects of treatment, but provides proactive counseling on healthy living strategies, managing prolonged effects of treatment, and traveling the psychosocial journey of finding a ‘new normal’. Evaluation of the program has demonstrated improved patient and provider satisfaction. Interspersed within the clinic day, I may also see patients for pre-treatment assessment, symptom management or urgent care drop-ins as required.
The other part of my role involves project development and management, providing leadership to nursing colleagues through consult, education and mentorship, the ability to act as a change agent through dissemination of best practice and new research, and the opportunity to meet my personal goals through presentations and publications. A great example of this is our RN-led Oral Cancer Therapy program. Recognizing a gap in service and safety issues surrounding the increasing use of oral targeted therapies, I consulted with stakeholders, produced a proposal and created a theory driven model of care. With the support of my colleagues and administration, the arduous process of putting paper into practice began.
Almost two years later, we have a robust program, led by a small group of RN’s. Through chart audits and surveys we are able to demonstrate improved patient/caregiver knowledge and confidence regarding oral cancer therapy and supports, fewer grade 3/4 adverse events, improved RN documentation including subjective evidence of patient adherence and patient/provider satisfaction. Dissemination of our program outcomes has generated interest throughout the province.
A clinical appointment with the University of Toronto has provided me with the opportunity to demonstrate the possibilities of the Nurse Practitioner role within the cancer system as a mentor to students; certainly a highlight of my role.
Typically, the above activities are intermingled throughout the day with other projects, meetings, committees, case conferences, educational events and the never ending stream of e-mail. Really, I wouldn’t change a thing.
