Specialist Nurse Chemo Infusion

Job Description

Job Purpose

The Specialist Nurse Chemo Infusion is responsible for delivering specialized nursing care to patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. The role involves preparing and administering chemotherapy infusions, monitoring patients for adverse reactions, and providing comprehensive support and education to patients and their families. The nurse must possess advanced clinical knowledge and skills in oncology nursing and be capable of collaborating with the healthcare team to ensure the highest standard of patient care.

Core Responsibilities

Clinical Care

• Prepare and administer chemotherapy and other oncology-related infusions according to established protocols.
• Monitor patients during and after chemotherapy for any immediate adverse reactions and provide appropriate interventions.
• Assess patient health status and make informed decisions regarding their care.
• Maintain and manage intravenous (IV) lines, ports, and catheters while ensuring aseptic techniques are followed.
• Administer pre-medications and supportive care treatments as required.

Patient Education and Support

• Educate patients and families about chemotherapy treatments, possible side effects, and home care instructions.
• Provide emotional support and counselling to patients to help them cope with treatment and side effects.
• Offer resources and referrals to additional support services as needed.

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemotherapy drugs under safety regulations.
• Adhere to infection control protocols and use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling hazardous materials.
• Maintain compliance with national and AMCE’s policies, including NMCN regulations and international standards for safe chemotherapy administration.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of chemotherapy administration, patient assessments, and treatment outcomes.
• Report any adverse drug reactions or unexpected patient responses to the medical team promptly.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of chemotherapy treatment guidelines and protocols.

Training and Professional Development:

• Participate in ongoing education and training programs related to oncology and chemotherapy nursing.
• Mentor and support junior nursing staff and students in the oncology unit.
• Engage in professional development activities to keep up with advancements in oncology nursing.

Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with oncologists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress and care strategies.
• Foster a collaborative environment within the oncology unit to ensure seamless patient care.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent from a recognized institution OR;
• Diploma in Nursing with post-basic training in Oncology or haematology nursing.

Professional Requirements

• Valid practising license
• Membership in relevant medical associations, such as the Oncology Nursing Medical Society of Nigeria or its equivalent.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of current clinical nursing experience, with at least 2 years specializing in oncology or chemotherapy administration.
• Completion of post-basic training in oncology or hematology
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary oncology team and familiarity with various cancer treatment protocols.

Competency Requirements

1. Knowledge Requirements

• Comprehensive understanding of cancer treatment processes and chemotherapy drugs.
• Knowledge of pharmacology related to chemotherapy and management of side effects.
• Familiarity with infection control practices and safety guidelines in handling cytotoxic drugs.
• Understanding of patient education principles related to chemotherapy and cancer care.

2. Skill Requirements

• Strong clinical and technical skills in chemotherapy administration.
• Excellent assessment and critical-thinking abilities for monitoring patient responses.
• Compassionate communication and interpersonal skills for effective patient and family interaction.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to manage treatment schedules efficiently.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in maintaining detailed and accurate patient records.
• Ability to provide mentorship and training to junior staff

3. Personal Abilities

• 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

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.