THE EVOLUTION OF GERO-ONCOLOGY NURSING

OBJECTIVES: This article summarizes the evolution of gero-oncology nursing and highlights key educational initiatives, clinical practice issues, and research areas to enhance care of older adults with cancer. DATA SOURCES: Peer-reviewed literature, position statements, clinical practice guidelines, Web-based materials, and professional organizations' resources. CONCLUSION: Globally, the older adult cancer population is rapidly growing. The care of older adults with cancer requires an understanding of their diverse needs and the intersection of cancer and aging. Despite efforts to enhance competence in gero-oncology and to develop a body of evidence, nurses and health care systems remain under-prepared to provide high-quality care for older adults with cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses must take a leadership role in integrating gerontological principles into oncology settings. Working closely with interdisciplinary team members, nurses should utilize available resources and continue to build evidence through gero-oncology nursing research.