The Cancer Informatics Infrastructure: a new initiative of the National Cancer Institute.

OBJECTIVES

To inform oncology nurses about the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Informatics Infrastructure initiative that will transform cancer care through more effective and efficient information exchanges among all involved in cancer research.

DATA SOURCES

Published articles and reports from the NCI pertaining to the initiative.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical trials represent the primary mechanism for evaluating promising new strategies to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. Advances in information technology and the exponential increase in the use of the internet are providing unprecedented opportunities to streamline the operation and administration of the clinical trials the NCI supports.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

The revitalized system will be more flexible and inclusive and will facilitate input from oncology nurses and others with a commitment to improving cancer care.