New opportunities for nurses as patient advocates

To define the role of nurses as patient advocates and to explore new strategies for the future.

Review articles, research studies, education and communications materials, and personal experience with oncology professionals, patients, and family members.

Cancer nurses' roles in patient advocacy have progressed and grown as the profession of oncology nursing has itself matured. As resources continue to diminish, nurses need to consider the power of their roles as change agents, coordinators, and directors as well as interventionists.

There are many needs for research in this area as well as new roles for nurses who care for patients. Nurses need to be aware of ongoing research in areas such as health communications and consider partnering with persons in these other disciplines to enhance productivity and to use their time most efficiently.