Abstract CN40
Background
This project supported by the Royal College of Nursing – Cancer and Breast Care forum brought together an expert working group to develop a competency framework based on contemporary policy, practice and evidence. The scope of nursing practice in oncology has changed dramatically in the last decade. For example, nurse-led clinics, prescribing and advanced practice have necessitated the need for guidance to support the development and recognition for nurses working at advanced and/or specialist levels.
Methods
A working group of nurses, academics, and cancer charity representatives was convened. A review and analysis of the literature was undertaken focused on the evidence base for best nursing care for people affected by breast cancer – as well as an analysis of guidance for nursing practice other competency frameworks or policy/regulatory guidance related to advanced practice roles. Subgroups undertook this analysis and drafted competencies based on the patient journey reflecting levels of practice. After multiple consultations and redrafting within the working group this was circulated to a larger stakeholder group of patients and nurses prior to publication and dissemination. This has been utilised in practice for a year and feedback on this framework has been collated.
Results
This project has demonstrated a significant change in the skills and knowledge required for nurses to support individuals affected by breast cancer, both through advanced roles in nursing, but also advances in treatment and support of patients. The input of stakeholders from all four UK nations and multiple viewpoints supported the development of person-centred framework to holistically care for affected individuals. In addition advanced roles which encompass roles such as prescribing and assessment for systemic anti-cancer therapies were incorporated into this guidance.
Conclusions
This evidence-based competency framework will support nurses development, but also ensure that nurses are undertaking skills appropriate to their job role. It has also been written to support nurses in non specialist settings develop their practice to optimise their competence for caring for this patient group.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
Royal College of Nurses, United Kingdom.
Funding
Roche for support of dissemination.
Disclosure
J.D. Afseth: Other, Personal and Institutional, Advisory Role, I was a member of the forum steering group and lead a working group in the publication of this work: Royal College of Nursing; Financial Interests, Institutional, Funding, Roche has provided funding to support the dissemination of this educational resource to the RCN: Roche.