title: The role of the CNS in head and neck oncology.
abstract: This article provides an insight into the development of the first clinical nurse specialist (CNS) post in head and neck oncology in Northern Ireland. The author reflects on her personal experience of the benefits and the difficulties in the first year of practice. Although the article focuses on head and neck cancer services, the concepts can be applied to setting up specialist nursing services in other specialties.
authors.affiliation: Ulster Community and Hospitals Trust, Dundonald, Belfast.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Semple
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009660:Northern Ireland; D009720:Nurse Clinicians / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009731:Nursing Audit; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care