Oncology Nurse Navigator

The Oncology Nurse Navigator is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Cancer Center is responsible for maintaining and improving daily operations for oncology as a service line with interdisciplinary cancer team, to include coordinating all services, functions, activities, and schedules. Ensures coordinated delivery of patient care for oncology patients being seen in Massachusetts General Hospital's Radiation Oncology service (MGH) at NWH, Mass General Cancer Center at NWH, and other areas where a cancer diagnosis may be made. Responsible for the quality/performance improvement program to ensure compliance with standards for quality patient care.

The Oncology Nurse Navigator administers care within the scope of hospital policies and procedures, Cancer Center Clinical Practice Guidelines and Massachusetts state regulations and standards of practice issued by The American Nurses Association and other professional organizations. The advanced practice nurse acts as a resource and collaborates/cooperates with nursing staff, medical providers, and other health care disciplines for promotion of health, to the optimal level of wellness, for patients, families and the community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Evaluates and examines care plan for newly diagnosed cancer patients based on tumor site.

• Gathers historic and clinical data, assesses physical, psychosocial, environmental, self-care, and educational status of

individuals, with assistance from their families as needed, and records it in the medical record.

• Consults with physician when significant findings warrant medical expertise not within the scope of the nurse in the

expanded role.

• Identifies outreach opportunities and provides appropriate educational programs to patients, families, colleagues and

other allied health workers.

• Guides patients to appropriate community resources and support services.

• Uses principles of leadership and management to promote optimal health care of patients.

• Acts as an advocate for patients and families.

• Is accessible by scheduled appointments and telephone.

• Attends in-service and educational programs to expand knowledge and stay abreast of current trends in nursing and

medicine.

• Acts as liaison to patients and families about community resources, eg: VNA, family support programs, pain

management, physical therapy, prevention and wellness education, nutrition and psycho/social care givers as indicated

during patient assessment.

• Participates in the Cancer Center, QI/ PI plan

• Accepts responsibility and accountability for her/his actions in providing care to patients.

• Understands the importance of ensuring patient and department safety.

• Communicates effectively and establishes good rapport with patients and staff.

• Develops, reviews and updates Cancer Center pertinent department policies, procedures and clinical practice guidelines as needed.

• In conjunction with the Medical Director and Cancer Center Administrative Director plans, develops, implements,

evaluates and revises Cancer Center Strategic plan. Develops strategies to promote service and works with appropriate departments to maintain quality patient care.

• Analyzes cost effectiveness of complementary therapies, support groups and other services being offered to oncology

patients and makes recommendations for continuation and modification of programming and services in conjunction with the Cancer Center Administrative Director.

• Coordinates and prepares materials for multidisciplinary cancer conferences to discuss and determine the best treatment plan for each newly diagnosed patient with cancer, as well as QA/QI conferences

• Continuously strives to meet service line goals and objectives that create a patient, employee and physician

environment of the highest quality, safety, and service in exhibiting NWH CareFirst standards.

• Promotes strategies to enhance service and works with appropriate departments to maintain quality patient care

• Responsible for communication with ancillary departments, such as Lab, Pharmacy, Oncology Inpatient unit, Infusion

unit, Women's Imaging, Breast Center, Radiology, Rehab Services and Transport, etc.

• Supports and navigates each patient and their families through their individual treatment options by coordinating

information, appointments & care with MGH medical team members

• Collaborates with interdisciplinary team at NWH to teach cancer prevention, screening guidelines, diagnosis, treatment

options, and the importance of early detection

• Educates patients and their families about their individual cancer diagnosis and treatment plan, coordinating with their

oncologist with respect to their options

• Referrals obtained via que, direct email or direct In Basket.

• Review for appropriateness and acuity of referral. Communicate with referring provider

• Review pertinent records.

• Obtain pertinent records, imaging and pathology

• Contact patient to introduce to Cancer Center, support services and education of diagnosis, expectations and logistics.

• Request the New Patient Coordinator schedule patient and provide time of appointment.

• Order necessary labs, EKG, and imaging.

• Coordinate with other providers as needed.

• Prepare GYN Conference

OTHER (NON-ESSENTIAL) FUNCTIONS:

• Maintains data for statistical purposes and identifies trends.

• Assists in preparation of operating budget for Cancer Center.

• Participates in research and other program projects and screenings.

• Attend meetings and participates in committees as requested

• Maintains data and other medical records for Cancer Center.

Education:

• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.

• BSN required

• Evidence of continued education and professional development.

Experience

• 3-5 years experience as RN in oncology setting with experience in case management and managing patients with

cancer.

• Experience with Surgical Oncology preferred

• Knowledge of the special needs and behaviors of patients with cancer and corresponding co-morbidities.

License/ Certifications

• Current licensure as a Nurse in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Certification in Oncology preferred or obtained

within 1 year of start.

• CPR Required