Senior Specialist Nurse, Radiation Oncology
- Abuja, FCT
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Provide expert nursing care to patients undergoing radiation therapy, ensuring adherence to treatment protocols and safety guidelines.
- Assess, monitor, and manage radiation therapy side effects, implementing evidence-based interventions to minimize complications.
- Collaborate with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and oncology nurses to ensure seamless coordination of patient care.
- Educate patients and families on radiation therapy procedures, expected side effects, and post-treatment care.
- Maintain accurate documentation of patient assessments, treatment responses, and follow-up care in compliance with regulatory standards.
- Lead and mentor junior oncology nurses, ensuring they develop the required competencies for radiation therapy nursing.
- Provide clinical supervision, training, and continuous professional development programs for nursing staff within the radiation oncology unit.
- Support workforce planning by assisting in the recruitment, onboarding, and retention of skilled oncology nurses.
- Foster a culture of teamwork, professional integrity, and patient-centered care within the radiation oncology nursing team.
- Serve as a key resource and role model for nursing staff, guiding them in best practices for radiation oncology nursing.
- Ensure strict adherence to radiation safety protocols, minimizing exposure risks for patients, staff, and caregivers.
- Participate in regular clinical audits and quality assurance activities to enhance radiation therapy outcomes.
- Collaborate with hospital infection control teams to implement hygiene and safety measures in the radiation oncology unit.
- Monitor and report adverse events, near misses, and treatment-related complications, contributing to a culture of continuous quality improvement.
- Stay updated on national and international oncology nursing guidelines, ensuring compliance with regulatory and accreditation requirements.
- Work closely with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, dosimetrists, and oncology pharmacists to optimize treatment planning and patient care.
- Act as a patient advocate by addressing concerns, ensuring informed consent, and facilitating psychosocial support services.
- Coordinate with dietitians, physiotherapists, and palliative care teams to provide holistic support to radiation oncology patients.
- Participate in tumor boards, case discussions, and treatment planning meetings to contribute nursing expertise to multidisciplinary care.
- Liaise with external healthcare providers, cancer support groups, and community organizations to ensure continuity of care for oncology patients.
- Integrate the latest research findings into radiation oncology nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and care standards.
- Support and participate in clinical trials, research projects, and innovation initiatives within the oncology department.
- Educate patients and families on participation in research studies, ensuring they understand benefits, risks, and ethical considerations.
- Develop and update clinical guidelines, patient education materials, and nursing protocols for radiation therapy nursing.
- Present research findings, case studies, and best practices at oncology nursing conferences, seminars, and professional workshops.
- Provide emotional and psychological support to patients coping with cancer diagnoses and radiation therapy treatments.
- Identify and address mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and distress related to radiation therapy.
- Refer patients and families to counseling services, support groups, and oncology social workers for additional emotional support.
- Promote a compassionate and empathetic care environment, ensuring patients feel heard, respected, and supported.
- Educate caregivers on how to support patients undergoing radiation therapy, providing guidance on symptom management and home care.
- Bachelor's degree in nursing or equivalent from a recognized institution
- Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license.
- Relevant certification in oncology nursing (e.g., Bsc, Certified Oncology Nurse).
- Specialized training or certification in radiation oncology or related fields is highly desirable.
- Meet all requirement to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria
- Minimum of 10 years post registered nursing experience, with at least 5 years specializing in oncology.
- Experience in radiation therapy processes and managing radiation-induced side effects.
- Demonstrated ability to handle complex cases and utilize specialized equipment and technologies related to radiation therapy.
- In-depth understanding of radiation therapy principles and patient care protocols.
- Knowledge of oncology-related medical terminology, treatments, and medications.
- Awareness of the psychological and emotional needs of cancer patients.
- Familiarity with patient education techniques and resources.
- Strong clinical and patient assessment skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Compassion and empathy for patient-centered care.
- Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Proficiency in maintaining detailed and accurate documentation.
- Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills for managing patient care challenges.
- Effective time management and organizational skills.
- Professional attitude towards work
- Shares the AMCE's vision.
- Proactive and organized.
- Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care.
- Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers.
- Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
- Commitment to caring for others.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- High levels of honesty and integrity
- Empathy and the ability to provide compassionate care