ESTABLISHING AN ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSING CLINIC IN THE CANCER SETTING

OBJECTIVES: To explore the roles of the Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), specifically the Nurse Practitioner (NP) in oncology and the issues, resources, and planning involved in establishing an NP clinic in the cancer setting. DATA SOURCES: Published peer reviewed literature, web-based resources, and cancer-related professional resources. CONCLUSION: The number of cancer patients is increasing and demands for oncology services are rising. With a shortage of oncologists projected over the next decade, the oncology NP can play a key role in providing oncology services across the cancer continuum. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Oncology APNs in the role of Nurse Practitioner (NP) can facilitate and enhance the delivery of oncology care. Traditional and innovative opportunities exist for the NP including the establishment of a NP clinic in the cancer setting; ultimately providing needed oncology services and quality care for patients with cancer.