Clinical Practice Specialist

Overview

The Clinical Practice Specialist (CPS) is a member of the nursing leadership team. The CPS is an expert in our patient populations, evidence-based practice, and systems. This position involves collaboration across the enterprise with interdisciplinary departments to develop and evaluate evidence-based practices, improve the quality of patient care, and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Clinical Practice Specialist practice is based on competencies described by the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) and the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. The mission, vision, and values of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute are incorporated into all areas of practice.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Models excellence in nursing practice using scientific knowledge and advanced concepts in the assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation of actual or potential problems in the oncology patient population.
• Collaborates and consults with nurses and other to influence nursing practices and improve care outcomes within a patient population.
• A key stakeholder and decision maker for the development, implementation and evaluation of standards of care, policies, guidelines, the introduction of new equipment, technology, and practices at the point of care and the integration of EBP into daily operational activities.
• Maintains expertise in ONS, ASCO, and other professional nursing standards and stays current on oncology evidence and changes in disease and treatment practices.
• Participates in local and national professional activities and organizations to promote the educational and professional growth of self and others within DFCI and the community.
• Provides content expertise as needed.
• Collaborates with Professional Development Specialist on curriculum development based on Learning Needs Assessment results.

Leadership

• Contributes to the creation of an environment that stimulates continuous self-learning, positive group processes, reflective practice, and the empowerment of others.
• Models constructive and mutually respectful relationships with colleagues.
• Fosters an environment that is sensitive to the needs of diverse populations, including but not limited to culture, ethnicity, gender, and age.
• Participates in goal-defining processes and systems changes to promote best practices
• Functions as a change agent, to implement, evaluate, and promote nursing care and systems that are safe, cost-effective and evidence based.
• PARTNERS WITH LEADERS IN CLINICAL AREAS TO ESTABLISH GOALS AND THEN DEVELOP, IMPLEMENT, AND EVALUATE STRATEGIES CONSISTENT WITH INSTITUTIONAL AND DEPARTMENTAL GOALS

Mentoring

• Works collaboratively with other departments and disciplines on projects, initiatives and programs to meet the goals of DFCI and promotes excellence in care delivery and outcomes.
• Is a clinical resource and consultant to all DFCI nursing community regarding clinical policies, standards and guidelines of care.
• Provides clinical expertise in the development and implementation of nursing clinical policy, procedure and standards processes and is a key member of DFCI NPCS and other policy committees.
• Mentors and supports the professional growth and development of nurses, other NPCS staff and students.

Quality / Safety / Regulatory Compliance

• Facilitates and leads quality and process improvement programs and initiatives.
• Affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
• Disseminates work related to research, EBP, and quality improvement initiatives.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficiency in educational technology and software.
• Ability to mentor and guide nursing staff effectively.
• Expertise in oncology nursing standards and evidence-based practices.
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance standards.

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Master of Science in Nursing required; Clinical Nurse Specialist track is preferred.
• Current RN license in Massachusetts (compact licensure).
• 3 years of oncology nursing experience and 3 years of oncology experience.
• Expertise in oncology nursing standards and evidence-based practice required.
• Oncology-specific certification required within 3 years of hire.