Caring for the caregivers: Innovative program for oncology nurses

Abstract

An innovative program, Care for the Professional Caregiver, was designed to provide staff nurses in a cancer program with the opportunity to learn about coping with stress in their practice. The program was evaluated using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings clearly describe the benefits of the program on both a short- and long-term basis. The value of connecting with other cancer nurses, supporting each other, and sharing stories about their work life experiences resulted in benefits to the nurse as an individual, as a team member, and as a professional practitioner. The program achieved its aims and is recommended for ongoing implementation.