This post was written by our melanoma/sarcoma nurse navigator Ashlee Jones. She is highly respected by all members of my team to include the nurses, pharmacist, staff, research team, and physicians! I’ve always felt that new patients diagnosed with cancer can initially have a rough start in the journey given the new diagnosis, the array of upfront testing, new appointments with specialists, insurances issues, etc. which can be daunting more so in a large multi-institutional hospital setting. Our navigators can be so helpful to our patients in streamlining the process from the initial clinic visit to the start of their first treatment.
Imagine being diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma, a life-altering moment that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, afraid, and uncertain of the next steps.
This is the reality for many of the patients I meet as an oncology nurse navigator, and my role is to help these patients “navigate” the cancer care continuum, from diagnosis to treatment, and on through survivorship.
One specific patient I recently met underwent a surgical resection of a brain lesion caused by metastatic melanoma. The patient recovered well from the brain surgery but was now facing a complex and challenging journey ahead which included a PET scan, genetic testing of the tumor tissue, appointments with palliative care, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and neurosurgery, treatment counseling and education with a nurse practitioner, exploring clinical trial options, and having their case presented at a tumor board conference to obtain consensus prior to the start of systemic treatment.
In such an intricate situation, a nurse navigator is an invaluable resource for patients and their families and is involved in the patient’s care and journey in a number of ways.
Improved Patient Care Coordination
Nurse navigators streamline the patient’s experience by coordinating appointments, tests, and treatments. They ensure patients receive the appropriate care in a timely manner.
Enhanced Communication
Nurse navigators act as a liaison between patients, their families, and the healthcare team. They help clarify complex medical information and facilitate open communication. They provide the patient with a direct point of contact within the cancer institute, and a familiar individual they can count on to address any questions or concerns.
Emotional Support
Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be an overwhelming experience. Nurse navigators provide emotional support to patients and their families, offering a listening ear and helping them cope with the challenges they may face.
Breaking down barriers
Nurse navigators assess and intervene to eliminate barriers that prevent our patients from receiving appropriate and timely cancer care. Some of these barriers are financial hardship, lack of transportation, cultural differences, and complicated family situations. Nurse navigators are familiar with available resources, such as financial assistance, support groups, and educational materials. They can connect patients and their families with these resources to help alleviate some of the burdens associated with cancer care.
Advocacy
Nurse navigators advocate for patients’ needs and preferences, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected throughout the treatment process.
Personalized Care
By getting to know each patient and understanding their unique needs, nurse navigators can tailor the care and support provided to better suit individual preferences and circumstances.
Better Outcomes
Research has shown that patients who receive nurse navigation services experience better clinical outcomes and higher satisfaction levels with their care. This can lead to improved treatment adherence, more effective symptom management, and overall better quality of life.
In above the patient’s case, I ensured scheduling and coordination of all necessary tests and appointments, and worked to have all results available for review at the tumor board conference. I spoke with the patient after their initial appointment, providing guidance in understanding treatment options, potential side effects, and the overall treatment process, promoting a better understanding of their condition and empowering them to make informed decisions. I built a rapport with the patient and their family, striving to be a source of comfort and reassurance during their journey. I helped to connect the patient with resources for financial assistance, and with our clinical research team for potential clinical trials. My role also included advocating for the patient’s preferences and needs, ensuring that the patient received the best possible care, tailored to their unique situation.
Nurse navigators play a crucial role within cancer institutions, providing essential support and guidance for cancer patients and their families. The nurse navigator’s ability to coordinate care, break down barriers, enhance communication, provide emotional support, connect patients with resources, advocate for their needs, and deliver personalized care can significantly improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.