Scientific Advances Shaping the Future Roles of Oncology Nurses.

OBJECTIVES

To discuss the recent scientific advances that influence current oncology care and explore the implications of these advances for the future of oncology nursing.

DATA SOURCES

Current nursing, medical and basic science literature; Clinicaltrials.gov.

CONCLUSION

The future of oncology care will be influenced by an aging population and increasing number of patients diagnosed with cancer. The advancements in molecular sequencing will lead to more clinical trials, targeted therapies, and treatment decisions based on the genetic makeup of both the patient and the tumor. Nurses must stay current with an ever changing array of targeted therapies and developing science. Nurses will influence cancer care quality, value, cost, and patient satisfaction.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

It is critical for oncology nurses and nursing organizations to engage with all oncology care stakeholders in identifying the future needs of oncology patients and the environment in which care will be delivered. Nurses themselves must identify the roles that will be needed to ensure a workforce that is adequate in number and well trained to meet the future challenges of care delivery.