Chemotherapy/Infusion Registered Nurse

Duties and Responsibilities

• Identify and assess physiological, psychological, social, and environmental factors affecting patients undergoing chemotherapy and infusion therapy.
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills appropriate to the care of adult and geriatric patients across all stages of treatment.
• Absorb and apply knowledge of antineoplastic agents, immunotherapy, and infusion therapies.
• Recognize and respond effectively to medical emergencies, infusion or transfusion reactions, and proactively intervene to prevent complications.
• Administer, monitor, document, and evaluate chemotherapy, biotherapy, immunotherapy, blood products, iron infusions, antibiotics, IV fluids, and other prescribed treatments in accordance with ONS guidelines and medical center policies.
• Perform venipuncture and manage vascular access devices including Port-A-Cath, PASport implanted devices, and PICC lines.
• Safely manage chemotherapy spills and adhere to hazardous drug handling protocols.
• Perform 12-lead electrocardiographic monitoring and interpret relevant laboratory values.

Medication & Treatment Administration

• Provide Basic Life Support (BLS), airway management, and appropriate use of AED when indicated.
• Perform tracheostomy care, gastrostomy/PEG tube care, urinary catheterization (indwelling and intermittent), blood glucose testing, and other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures as required.
• Administer high-alert medications and oral or IV antineoplastic and immunotherapy agents as prescribed.

Documentation & Communication

• Review electronic and/or paper medical records for provider orders and treatment protocols.
• Document patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes using approved VA forms and computerized systems.
• Promptly notify providers of significant changes in patient condition or other pertinent clinical information.

Patient Education & Care Coordination

• Develop and implement individualized patient education and teaching plans based on assessed needs.
• Address patient concerns, answer questions, and provide education regarding treatment plans, side effects, and self-care strategies.
• Care for COVID-19 positive patients and Patients Under Investigation (PUI) in the Chemotherapy/Infusion Clinic setting.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to influence positive patient outcomes across the continuum of care.

Team & Operational Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with the Chemotherapy & Infusion team and participate in interdisciplinary meetings.
• Maintain responsibility for providing clinical coverage to the Chemotherapy & Infusion Center.
• Practice in adherence to professional nursing standards, ethical principles, and facility policies.