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WOUND CARE
the implementation of “clinical or best practice guidelines that are systematically developed
statements based on best evidence that assist clinicians to make decisions about appropriate”
patient care (Pearson, Field, & Jordon, 2007, p.143). The kinds of evidence that support ‘best
practice’ are summarized in relevant systematic reviews, research studies and clinical practice
guidelines. Thus, best practice in the environmental and organizational context of radiation
oncology encompasses the decisions on clinical practice by assimilating the best available
research evidence with practitioner expertise and other resources with the specific needs, values
and preferences of patients with cancer undergoing radiotherapy (Spring & Hitchcock, 2009).
Background to the Study
th
The role of the oncology nurse evolved significantly during the latter part of the 20
century as technology has advanced and cancer care has shifted increasingly to ambulatory care
settings that are often affiliated with regional cancer treatment centres or large hospitals. It is
estimated that 80-90% of care given to patients with cancer is delivered in the ambulatory setting
(Buchsel & Yarbro, 2005). Existing roles of the ambulatory oncology nurse involve but are not
limited to: clinical nursing in symptom management; patient education; advocacy; clinical trials;
triage; telephone care and community referral. With this breadth of clinical practice, nursing
care is pivotal in the smooth functioning of ambulatory centres. Across Canada, there are
currently 42 Radiation Oncology Centres (Canadian Association of Radiation Oncology, 2011).
A Radiation Oncology Centre is an outpatient ambulatory setting; often affiliated to a
larger hospital. Ambulatory radiation oncology treatment centres contain precision-based
treatment equipment as well as dedicated patient support systems. One Radiation Therapy Nurse
(RTN) is recommended per centre for up to 300 patients treated annually (Inter-society Council
for Radiation Oncology, cited by Khan, 2010, p. 376). Radiation Oncology Centres exemplify
