Oncology nursing education within a supportive care framework: an evidence-based undergraduate course

Addressing supportive care needs of individuals affected by cancer is a crucial role for oncology nurses. If these needs are not identified and addressed, then individuals and their families risk experiencing biopsychosocial distress. This paper describes how a group of interested nurses with research and/or cancer knowledge developed, implemented and evaluated an evidence-based university undergraduate course in oncology nursing. The purposes of this course are to provide nurses with specialized knowledge about supportive care in oncology throughout the cancer care continuum and to assist registered nurses in preparing for oncology nursing certification. Theoretical, practical and research-based issues related to the scope of supportive care are incorporated into the assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning and evaluation of client care.