In-House-Continuing Nursing Education (CNE): “Nursing Perspectives in Oncology”, Kauvery Hospital, Tennur

Lucy Grace1, Esthar Rani2

1Nurse Educator, Kauvery Hospital, Tennur, Trichy

2Nursing Superintendent, Kauvery Hospital, Tennur, Trichy

Background

Oncology nursing is a specialized field of nursing focused on the care of patients diagnosed with cancer. It encompasses prevention, early detection, treatment, symptom management, and palliative care, addressing both the physical and emotional needs of patients and their families. Oncology nurses play a crucial role in administering chemotherapy, managing side effects, providing patient education, and offering psychosocial support throughout the continuum of care. Their work requires advanced clinical skills, compassionate communication, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optimal outcomes.

Abstract

In this Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) program, we explored nursing perspectives in oncology, guided by Dr.V.Senthil Velmurugan, Medical Administrator, KMC Tennur, and in collaboration with the oncology team under the leadership of Dr.Anish, Surgical Oncologist.

Aim

The event aimed to enhance the knowledge, clinical skills and holistic understanding of oncology nursing among staff nurses, with a focus on patient-centered care, early detection and advanced treatment modalities.

The event was organized with the leadership of the chairperson

Ms. Esthar Rani, the Nursing Superintendent, myself, Ms. Lucy

Grace, as the organizing secretary, The 4 expert doctors and 8

speakers specializing in oncology department provided

a comprehensive and clear explanation of Nursing perspectives in oncology, This one-day event was attended by 50 staff nurses from across the Trichy region, as well as doctors and distinguished speakers.

Participations

The program saw the active participation of 50 nurses from the Trichy region, including:

  • Chairperson-1
  • Organizing Secretory-1
  • Resource Persons-Doctors – 4 members
  • Resource Persons-Nurses- 7
  • Cantonment – 4 nurses
  • Maa Kauvery – 5 nurses
  • Heart City – 5 nurses
  • Tennur-27

In addition, 4 doctors and 8 invited speakers contributed to the scientific sessions.

Registration and Pre-Test

The day commenced with the registration of participants, followed by a pre-test to assess baseline knowledge on oncology nursing concepts. This enabled the organizers to tailor the sessions for maximum benefit.

The day commenced with the Kauvery Anthem, the session commenced with a introductory address by Ms. Lucy Grace, highlighting the significance of oncology nursing in enhancing patient care and outcomes.

followed by a warm welcome from Ms. Leema, Assistant Nursing Superintendent and an inspiring opening note from our Nursing Superintendent, Ms. Esther Rani.

Morning Session

  • The scientific sessions began with Dr. Anis, Senior Consultant Surgical Oncologist, on “Principles of Multimodality Cancer Treatment”. He elaborated on integrating surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, stressing the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration for optimal patient outcomes.
  • Surendra Kumar, Surgical Oncologist, presented “Chemoport Maintenance & Safe Handling of Chemotherapy”. His talk focused on sterile handling techniques, prevention of port-related complications, and adherence to chemotherapy safety protocols to protect both patients and healthcare workers.
  • Sathish delivered “Managing Radiation Reactions – Nurses’ Role”, covering the identification and management of radiation-induced side effects, skin care protocols, and patient education to improve tolerance to therapy.
  • Mangai Suseela, Medical and Hemato-Oncologist, presented “Nursing Care During Chemotherapy”, highlighting patient monitoring, managing side effects like nausea and myelosuppression, and offering psychological support during treatment cycles.

Following the doctors’ sessions, senior nursing professionals shared practical insights:

  • “Comprehensive Cancer Prevention and Screening”–Session led by Ms. Bhuvaneshwari, Nursing Supervisor covering key strategies for early detection, risk reduction, and screening protocols for various cancers.
  • Pain Management and Palliative Care – Ms. Thanaseeli, Nursing Superintendent, delivered an in-depth session on effective pain management strategies and the principles of palliative care, emphasizing holistic approaches to improve patient comfort and quality of life.
  • Essential Stoma Care – A Practical Guide for Nurses – Ms. Mounika, Nursing In-Charge

Provided practical guidance on stoma care techniques, including assessment, appliance management, prevention of complications, and patient education for self-care.

  • Nutrition Therapy in Oncology Nursing – Ms. Emalda Mary, Nursing In-Charge

Highlighted the importance of tailored nutrition therapy for oncology patients, focusing on dietary modifications to manage treatment side effects and improve recovery outcomes.

  • Psychological Support and Counselling in Oncology – Ms. Girija, Nursing In-Charge Discussed approaches for providing emotional support and counselling to oncology patients and their families, aiming to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression during treatment.

Afternoon Session- Hands-On Training

Ms. Kasthuri, Senior Patient Safety Nurse – Conducted practical training on safe handling of cytotoxic drugs and central line dressing techniques to ensure staff safety and infection prevention.

Ms. Suganya, Senior Infection Control Nurse – Demonstrated effective Cytotoxic spill management procedures for hazardous substances to maintain a safe clinical environment.

Post-Test and Feedback

At the conclusion of the academic sessions, a post-test was conducted to measure knowledge improvement. The results indicated a significant enhancement in understanding of oncology nursing principles. Feedback forms were collected, reflecting high satisfaction with the programme’s content, organisation, and practical relevance.

Pre Test average Score : 78%

Post Test average Score: 98%

Certificate and Gift Distribution

Participants received CNE certificates and mementos were presented as a token of appreciation. The program concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Lucy Grace, Organizing Secretary, acknowledging the contributions of the chairperson, distinguished speakers, participants, and organizing team for making the CNE a grand success.

Conclusion

The CNE on “Nursing Perspective in Oncology” successfully met its objectives of updating nurses on current oncology practices, strengthening their skills and inspiring compassionate, evidence-based patient care.

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