Travel RN - Chemo 8hr Days Carle Cancer Institute

Job Description

Job Description

· Pay Rate: Rate may vary due to local or non-local contracted rates: $55-$60/hr combined Rate of pay. (Pay packages are a combination of taxable hourly rates, tax free allowances for travel, housing, and meal allowances) (Rates are subject to change via client need)

· Additional bonuses are available.

· Rates are subject to change via client

Oncology RN job description:

An Oncology Nurse plays a critical role in the healthcare team, specializing in the care of patients diagnosed with cancer. This nurse is responsible for providing expert care throughout the patient's cancer treatment journey, from initial diagnosis to post-treatment recovery. Oncology Nurses manage complex care needs, including administering chemotherapy, providing pain management, and offering emotional and psychological support to both patients and their families.

Key Responsibilities:

Patient Care:

• Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care needs, focusing on cancer-specific treatments and conditions.
• Monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, especially during and after chemotherapy treatments.
• Administer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other cancer-related medications, observing for side effects or adverse reactions.
• Provide pre-treatment and post-treatment care, including managing side effects like nausea, fatigue, and pain.
• Assist patients with daily living activities, ensuring comfort and emotional support during their treatment journey.
• Provide emotional support and education to patients and their families, addressing concerns and helping them understand treatment processes.

Medical Administration:

• Administer prescribed cancer treatments, medications, and pain management strategies, ensuring accurate dosages and appropriate administration techniques.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, documenting treatments, responses, and side effects.
• Collaborate with oncologists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals to develop and execute comprehensive patient care plans.
• Prepare patients for chemotherapy sessions and ensure appropriate recovery measures are in place.

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Continuously monitor patients’ responses to cancer treatments, noting any changes in symptoms or the emergence of complications.
• Report any significant changes in patient conditions to oncologists, nursing leadership, and other team members.
• Keep detailed records of patient conditions, treatments, and responses, following hospital and healthcare policies.

Patient Education:

• Educate patients and their families on cancer diagnosis, treatment options, side effects, and recovery processes.
• Offer resources and guidance on managing side effects, such as nausea, pain, and emotional distress.
• Provide guidance on home care and medication regimens, ensuring patients understand their treatment plan.

Infection Control and Safety:

• Adhere to strict infection control protocols, especially given the immunocompromised nature of many oncology patients.
• Monitor patients for signs of infection, particularly during chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
• Ensure patient safety and comfort throughout their treatment process, minimizing risks and complications.

Team Collaboration:

• Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary healthcare team, including oncologists, social workers, physical therapists, dietitians, and fellow nursing staff.
• Actively participate in shift handoffs and team discussions, ensuring seamless communication about patient needs and status.

Emergency Response:

• Respond promptly to any medical emergencies, including adverse reactions to cancer treatments or other life-threatening conditions.
• Use critical thinking skills to assess and react to changes in patient status, including managing potential reactions like anaphylaxis or complications from chemotherapy.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Education: Registered Nurse (RN) with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
• Licensure: Valid state RN license.
• Certifications: BLS (Basic Life Support) required. OCN (Oncology Certified Nurse) certification preferred or must be obtained within a specified time frame.
• Experience: Previous experience in oncology nursing or related fields preferred.
• Skills: Strong clinical assessment skills, ability to work in a high-pressure environment, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to offer empathetic care in emotionally charged situations.