Oncology Nursing :Symptom management and oncology emergencies course -

Abstract

Oncology is an ever evolving specialty. The diagnosis, treatment modalities, and health promotion within the disease itself never cease to grow. Oncology nursing is an integral component of cancer care. Oncology nurses need to have current clinical knowledge and assessment skills for ensuring safety and improved outcomes for the oncology patient population. Nurses are adult learners who are self-directed and require a flexible approach in meeting their learning needs. This makes a self-learning course for oncology nurses appropriate to their preparation for oncology practice. The purpose of this project is to develop the details of two of its modules: oncology emergencies and symptom management. The literature supports the significance of continuing education (CE) for nurses, with studies showing improved knowledge and patient outcomes. The methods of delivery of such courses vary, but on line courses are becoming more popular for they allow more flexibility for nurses in achieving their learning outcomes with their busy schedules. A needs assessment survey done at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) in 2009 showed that more than half the nurses expressed the need to have information about symptoms management and oncology emergencies. These were also identified as priority areas by the Clinical and Professional Development Center at AUBMC.The material for the project was developed based on the literature and a course syllabus showed the description, learning outcomes, outline, assessment and evaluation methods for each module. Each module has six units displayed as power point presentations within which are integrated case studies, audio-visual aids and various resources to facilitate learning. An implementation and evaluation plans are described, including multiple choice exam and course evaluation by the learners. This course is hoped to provide the nurses with knowledge and skills they can apply in their practice in a learner friendly format. Evaluation of the course’s impact is rec