Senior Specialist Nurse - Radiation Oncology

Job Description

Job Purpose

The Senior Specialist Nurse – Radiation Oncology provides expert nursing care to patients undergoing radiation therapy. This role focuses on patient assessment, treatment coordination, side effect management, and patient education to support individuals throughout their cancer treatment journey. The nurse collaborates with oncologists, radiation therapists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive, compassionate, and safe care that aligns with best practices in oncology nursing.

Core Responsibilities

Advanced Clinical Care and Patient Management

• Provide expert nursing care to patients undergoing radiation therapy, ensuring adherence to treatment protocols and safety guidelines.
• Assess, monitor, and manage radiation therapy side effects, implementing evidence-based interventions to minimize complications.
• Collaborate with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and oncology nurses to ensure seamless coordination of patient care.
• Educate patients and families on radiation therapy procedures, expected side effects, and post-treatment care.
• Maintain accurate documentation of patient assessments, treatment responses, and follow-up care in compliance with regulatory standards.

Leadership and Mentorship in Oncology Nursing

• Lead and mentor junior oncology nurses, ensuring they develop the required competencies for radiation therapy nursing.
• Provide clinical supervision, training, and continuous professional development programs for nursing staff within the radiation oncology unit.
• Support workforce planning by assisting in the recruitment, onboarding, and retention of skilled oncology nurses.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, professional integrity, and patient-centered care within the radiation oncology nursing team.
• Serve as a key resource and role model for nursing staff, guiding them in best practices for radiation oncology nursing.

Patient Safety, Quality Improvement, and Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to radiation safety protocols, minimizing exposure risks for patients, staff, and caregivers.
• Participate in regular clinical audits and quality assurance activities to enhance radiation therapy outcomes.
• Collaborate with hospital infection control teams to implement hygiene and safety measures in the radiation oncology unit.
• Monitor and report adverse events, near misses, and treatment-related complications, contributing to a culture of continuous quality improvement.
• Stay updated on national and international oncology nursing guidelines, ensuring compliance with regulatory and accreditation requirements.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Patient Advocacy

• Work closely with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, dosimetrists, and oncology pharmacists to optimize treatment planning and patient care.
• Act as a patient advocate by addressing concerns, ensuring informed consent, and facilitating psychosocial support services.
• Coordinate with dietitians, physiotherapists, and palliative care teams to provide holistic support to radiation oncology patients.
• Participate in tumor boards, case discussions, and treatment planning meetings to contribute nursing expertise to multidisciplinary care.
• Liaise with external healthcare providers, cancer support groups, and community organizations to ensure continuity of care for oncology patients.

Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Innovation

• Integrate the latest research findings into radiation oncology nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and care standards.
• Support and participate in clinical trials, research projects, and innovation initiatives within the oncology department.
• Educate patients and families on participation in research studies, ensuring they understand benefits, risks, and ethical considerations.
• Develop and update clinical guidelines, patient education materials, and nursing protocols for radiation therapy nursing.
• Present research findings, case studies, and best practices at oncology nursing conferences, seminars, and professional workshops.

Psychological and Emotional Support for Patients and Families

• Provide emotional and psychological support to patients coping with cancer diagnoses and radiation therapy treatments.
• Identify and address mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and distress related to radiation therapy.
• Refer patients and families to counseling services, support groups, and oncology social workers for additional emotional support.
• Promote a compassionate and empathetic care environment, ensuring patients feel heard, respected, and supported.
• Educate caregivers on how to support patients undergoing radiation therapy, providing guidance on symptom management and home care.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent from a recognized institution

Professional Requirements

• Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license.
• Relevant certification in oncology nursing (e.g., Bsc, Certified Oncology Nurse).
• Specialized training or certification in radiation oncology or related fields is highly desirable.
• Meet all requirement to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years post registered nursing experience, with at least 5 years specializing in oncology.
• Experience in radiation therapy processes and managing radiation-induced side effects.
• Demonstrated ability to handle complex cases and utilize specialized equipment and technologies related to radiation therapy.

Competency Requirements

1. Knowledge Requirements

• In-depth understanding of radiation therapy principles and patient care protocols.
• Knowledge of oncology-related medical terminology, treatments, and medications.
• Awareness of the psychological and emotional needs of cancer patients.
• Familiarity with patient education techniques and resources.

2. Skill Requirements

• Strong clinical and patient assessment skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Compassion and empathy for patient-centered care.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in maintaining detailed and accurate documentation.
• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills for managing patient care challenges.
• Effective time management and organizational skills.

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.