Using Evidence to Prepare Non-Oncology Nurses for Cancer Survivor Care

Background: Growing increases in current and projected cancer survivors demands a workforce that can safely meet their health care needs spanning a lifetime. The literature lacks sufficient evidence regarding the knowledge needed by non-oncology nurses who care for cancer survivors in settings not designated for cancer care. This study identified this oncology knowledge and perceived barriers. Method: The Cancer Nursing Curriculum Survey was completed by a national pool of 302 oncology and 313 medical-surgical nurses who rated the depth and importance of 33 cancer concepts needed by non-oncology nurses for cancer survivor care. Results: Concept means for depth and importance were similar between both groups, with importance rated higher. Major concepts focused on symptom management. Barriers included lack of time, knowledge, and access to resources. Conclusion: The findings indicate the understanding of knowledge needed by non-oncology nurses for survivor care and provide a first step to design continuing education to address needs.