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The evolving role of the Colorectal/Stoma Care Nurse Specialist
Background
The theme of this project was to investigate post surgery nurse led follow-up for colorectal cancer patients. New ways of working and more flexibility has allowed nurses to be more responsive and adaptable to meet patient needs and lead change. The up-skilling of nurses to expand practice and take on new roles that combine medical and nursing practice promote a more effective and holistic approach to care.
Aim
To develop a protocol to facilitate Non medical nurse led clinics.
Method
A systematic review of the literature identified current knowledge about this subject area and patient views and preferences were sought to gain a greater understanding of the uniqueness of nurse led follow-up.
Results
Nurse led clinics provide quality services that are cost effective and offer seamless care with greater satisfaction for patients. Patients feel more in control with a greater understanding of the benefits of colorectal cancer follow-up. Continuity of care is one of the main drivers for change from a patient perspective.
Competency levels and supervision for the Clinical Nurse Specialists were defined and a process developed to facilitate nurse led clinics.
Conclusion
A more systematic approach to care utilising the protocol for colorectal cancer nurse led clinics will ensure that patients are empowered with more information to aid decision making and also benefit from continuity of care from the Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Background
The theme of this project was to investigate post surgery nurse led follow-up for colorectal cancer patients. New ways of working and more flexibility has allowed nurses to be more responsive and adaptable to meet patient needs and lead change. The up-skilling of nurses to expand practice and take on new roles that combine medical and nursing practice promote a more effective and holistic approach to care.
Aim
To develop a protocol to facilitate Non medical nurse led clinics.
Method
A systematic review of the literature identified current knowledge about this subject area and patient views and preferences were sought to gain a greater understanding of the uniqueness of nurse led follow-up.
Results
Nurse led clinics provide quality services that are cost effective and offer seamless care with greater satisfaction for patients. Patients feel more in control with a greater understanding of the benefits of colorectal cancer follow-up. Continuity of care is one of the main drivers for change from a patient perspective.
Competency levels and supervision for the Clinical Nurse Specialists were defined and a process developed to facilitate nurse led clinics.
Conclusion
A more systematic approach to care utilising the protocol for colorectal cancer nurse led clinics will ensure that patients are empowered with more information to aid decision making and also benefit from continuity of care from the Clinical Nurse Specialist.