A survey of the role, benefits, and realities of the office-based oncology nurse.
The office-based oncology nurse plays an increasingly significant role in the treatment of patients with cancer as the focus of health care shifts from the inpatient to the outpatient arena. Yet the role of the office-based oncology nurse is seldom addressed. In 1989, a survey was undertaken to examine the range of tasks involved in, the expectations and disappointments associated with, and the resulting job satisfaction from the role. A random sample of self-identified, office-based oncology nurses received the survey. A total of 192 nurses responded; 87% of the respondents indicated a high level of job satisfaction. Salary analysis showed wages to be comparable to those paid to inpatient oncology nurses. The opportunity to work with patients throughout the phases of disease was identified as the most gratifying aspect of the respondents' jobs. The opportunity for better work hours and more professional independence were frequently cited benefits. The survey's results reveal the evolution of the office-based oncology nurse's role into one of a multifaceted, independent practitioner.
Barhamand
B A
BA
Hematology-Oncology Consultants, Ltd., Naperville, IL.
D000328:Adult; D002321:Career Choice; D006801:Humans; D007587:Job Description; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008875:Middle Aged; D009740:Nursing Staff / Q000523:psychology*; D009818:Office Nursing / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D012456:Salaries and Fringe Benefits; D012718:Set, Psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States