The Process of Oncology Nurse Practitioner Patient Navigation: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology Nursing
• Patient Navigation
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Oncology nurse practitioner (ONP) patient navigators show potential for improving cancer patient outcomes.
• Standardized measures for oncology patient navigation processes and outcomes are lacking.
• Existing research in this specialized area is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the processes utilized by ONP patient navigators in cancer care.
• To lay the groundwork for developing standardized measures in oncology patient navigation.

Main Methods:

• Grounded theory methodology was employed.
• Data were collected through in-depth interviews with three ONPs.
• The study focused on understanding the practical application of patient navigation.

Main Results:

• Identified core processes and activities undertaken by ONP patient navigators.
• Provided initial insights into the practical implementation of oncology patient navigation.
• Highlighted the need for further research to standardize practices.

Conclusions:

• ONP patient navigators engage in distinct processes crucial for cancer patient care.
• Further research is essential to develop and validate standardized measures for oncology patient navigation.
• Establishing clear processes can enhance the effectiveness of patient navigation in oncology settings.