Pain intensity and pain management of hospitalized patients with cancer: an opportunity for improvement.

About 73% of patients diagnosed with cancer report poor pain management. The purpose of this study was to evaluate pain intensity and the extent to which pain was controlled, and based on the findings, to pose options for improving pain management for hospitalized patients with cancer.

Retrospective study of multidisciplinary rounding on a thoracic surgical oncology unit.

Multidisciplinary rounding (MDR) reduces medical errors and improves the quality of care for hospitalized patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate hospital length of stay, patient satisfaction, admission to a skilled care facility, and the use of home health care or hospice in patients who received MDR compared to those who did not. This retrospective study included the records of 3,077 thoracic surgical patients with cancer who were admitted to a midwestern National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center from January 1, 2006, through July 1, 2011.

Avoiding failure to rescue situations: a simulation exercise for oncology nurses.

This project aimed to improve RNs' recognition of and appropriate responses to failure to rescue situations on a surgical oncology unit. Simulation exercises played a key role in identifying areas of strength, opportunities for improvement, and development of a personalized education plan. In addition, the exercises improved RNs' clinical confidence.

From unit based to population focused: transforming the role of oncology clinical nurse specialists.

Purpose/objectives: The aim of this study was to describe how the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) role can be positioned to proactively plan and facilitate evidenced-based best practices in collaboration with a transdisciplinary, population-focused team that manages the patient across the cancer care continuum. This model capitalizes on the spheres of CNS practice (patient, nurse, and organization) through the functional roles of the CNS (clinical expert, researcher, educator, and consultant) to maximize quality care.

Background/rationale: The CNS practice in a Midwest comprehensive cancer center has been unit based, focused on nursing staff education, skills, and competencies.