Fundamentals for a new concept of oncology nursing in the professional nursing education program.

Cancer is a life-threatening illness affecting approximately one-third of the population in America and western Europe. All nurses and student nurses will in all probability be confronted at some time in their careers with the specific problems of cancer patients and their families. Are all nurses, however, being prepared in their basic nursing education programs to deal with these problems? It is the purpose of this paper, first of all, to examine this question through a review of appropriate literature and through review of a questionnaire, sent to nursing students in their final semester, relating to perceived needs in this area. Secondly, our purpose is to suggest actions that may need to be taken in order to assure quality care of cancer patients and adequate preparation and support of professional nurses involved in this care.