One school's experience with the development of an oncology nurse practitioner curriculum

Abstract

Purpose/objectives: To describe the foundational work and implementation of a nurse practitioner (NP) curriculum geared toward oncology nurses. The study is selective (not comprehensive) and reflective of one school's experience.

Data source: Journal articles, curriculum guidelines, anecdotal experience, and interviews.

Data synthesis: The NP is used more frequently in oncology, both as a clinician and for other aspects of advanced practice nursing. NPs must be prepared to fulfill graduate criteria as outlined by definitive sources for curriculum development.

Conclusions: Schools must work with employers, graduates, and patients in conducting outcome evaluations to measure safety issues and role effectiveness of oncology NPs (ONPs), as well as fulfillment of all aspects of the advanced nursing practice role.

Implications for nursing practice: If healthcare employers continue to rely heavily on the use of ONPs, schools of nursing must be prepared to graduate safe clinicians, experts in oncology, and advanced practice nurses, all combined into one graduate. This difficult task requires evaluation of current practices.