Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)- Medical Oncology

Scope of Position

The Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) has a unique Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) role that integrates care across the *cancer continuum through three spheres of influence: patient, nurse and system. The primary goal in these interrelated spheres is to achieve continuous improvement of patient outcomes through quality nursing care. (APRN Joint Dialogue Group Report, (July 7, 2008).

The CNS: 1) provides guidance and direction to the health care team in achieving positive patient care outcomes, 2) designs, implements and evaluates patient-specific and population-based programs of care, and 3) serves as a researcher, clinical expert, leader, consultant, role model/mentor, staff resource and educator in advancing the practice of nursing science. The CNS facilitates translating research into evidence-based practice that enhances patient outcomes in a fiscally responsible manner. The CNS role serves the unit, department, institution and community

*Cancer Continuum also includes care of the benign hematology patient population.

Position Summary

The CNS is an advanced practice nurse who is an expert in evidence-based nursing practice within a specialty area. The CNS integrates research and knowledge of disease and current treatments into the assessment, diagnosis, and health care goals for patients and populations. The CNS provides leadership in the implementation of nursing practice standards.

The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) plays a significant role in advancing evidence-based practice (EBP), quality, and patient safety within Cancer Medicine (Medical Oncology). This role serves as a liaison among CNS colleagues assigned to cancer medicine services and provides leadership in the development, coordination, and implementation of initiatives that enhance patient outcomes.