Abstract
BackgroundOncology care is a highly specialised division of nursing which requires a higher level of training and education following basic preparation. Rwanda, a developing country, initiated education of oncology nurse specialists in 2015. This paper highlights the experience of establishing the programme.MethodsSelected literature and expert oncology nurses were consulted to provide direction for the development of this paper. The websites of oncology nursing organisations and the curriculum used by the University of Rwanda for preparing oncology nurses were also reviewed.ResultsIn 2015, Rwanda initiated the training of oncology nurse specialists (master’s level). The programme has had two successful cohorts graduating. This programme is implemented in a module system with 14 modules. The modules emphasised on screening and diagnosis of different cancers and their treatment, management of treatment related side effects, palliative care, end-of-life care and rehabilitation. A part this formal education, Rwanda, through Partners in Health and the Rwanda Biomedical Center, is also offering in-service training of nurses on cancer treatment, preventive measures and early identification such as Clinical Breast Examination and screening of cervical cancer.ConclusionOncology nurses can play a key role in the care of cancer patients and prevention activities when they have the appropriate education. Rwanda’s experience in establishing a master’s programme in oncology nursing could be of assistance to others who wish to develop a similar programme.
Highlights
The number of individuals diagnosed with cancer is projected to increase rapidly over the decade reaching 22 million new cases and 13 million deaths worldwide by 2030 [1]
Cardiovascular diseases, but 22% of African countries lack access to cancer care [1] and leaders are calling for concerted attention to cancer control, including preparation of healthcare professionals who will be able to deal with the emerging crisis.[3, 4]
According to the European Oncology Nursing Society (EONS), a cancer nurse or oncology nurse is a qualified nurse who has the authority and full responsibility to provide essential nursing care to people affected by cancer and their families based upon their evidence-based, specialised, ethical and personal knowledge and skill [7]
Summary
The number of individuals diagnosed with cancer is projected to increase rapidly over the decade reaching 22 million new cases and 13 million deaths worldwide by 2030 [1]. Oncology nursing care is a highly specialised subset of practice that requires a higher level of training and education following basic preparation [5]. When nurses have the opportunity to learn about cancer care, their specialised knowledge and skill can influence the quality of care for patients and families. Oncology care is a highly specialised division of nursing which requires a higher level of training and education following basic preparation.
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