A Survey Study on the Roles, Responsibilities and Workforce Characteristics of Radiation Oncology Nurses in Australia

Radiation Oncology Nurses (RONs) are key members of the radiation oncology team; however, the role of the RON is not always clear. The aims of this study were to provide an overview of the RON workforce in Australia, to describe the roles and responsibilities of RONs, and to identify challenges and job satisfaction of RONs.

This was a two-part multi-methods survey study. Two self-reported questionnaires were distributed online using purposive and snowball sampling: Radiation Oncology Facility Survey (ROFS) and RON Workforce Survey (RONWS). The surveys used tick boxes, Likert scale and open and closed-ended questions. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical variables; mean/standard deviation for continuous variables.

A total of 42 responses were received for the ROFS and 139 for the RONWS, representing all States and Territories in Australia except the Australian Capital Territory (ACT): 52% were metropolitan and 50% were public facilities. Only 17% reported radiation oncology specific training, but 58% had plans to further their education. 80% reported being satisfied with their career and position, believing their role was recognised and generally respected among colleagues and patients. Areas of dissatisfaction included salary, staffing resources and opportunities for advancement.

This is the largest study of RONs in Australia, revealing that RON is a satisfying oncology specialty. Data from this study can be used to identify opportunities for improvement in staffing, engagement and retention of RONs, possibly leading to the development of national guidelines for radiation oncology nursing in Australia.