ONS Connect - December 2008 - (Page 17) Pilot Study Assesses Implementation of Cancer Core Competencies F rom prevention to survivorship, the shortage of trained oncology healthcare workers is a challenge for patients who need care. Many health professionals work with patients with cancer and their families but do not have the cancer care training needed. Core competencies in cancer care are needed for all healthcare professionals in an effort to expand and broaden the nononcology workforce. ONS is participating in the Cancer Competency Initiative with C-Change, a nonprofit organization whose members represent the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. Its mission is to eliminate cancer as a public health problem, at the earliest possible time, by leveraging the expertise and resources of its members. C-Change implemented a Cancer Core Competency Pilot Project at four sites across the United States to assess the aggregated utility of the C-Change Cancer Core Competencies in improving the knowledge and performance of noncancer specialist healthcare professionals through educational interventions. The four study sites used C-Change’s cancer core competencies to guide curricular development across a range of disciplines. Specifically, the objectives of the study were to • Define implementation methods for various organizations, disciplines, and geographic areas. • Implement program plans across various settings to evaluate the applica- bility of the competencies and utility of the implementation tools. • Evaluate the program’s impact on professional competency and attitudes. Preliminary results from the pilot study found participant knowledge improved across the pilot sites. Measurable outcomes in cancer skills and attitudes also were achieved at all sites. In addition, site leaders found the competency statements and tools flexible and useful in their design and implementation efforts. For the full Cancer Core Competency Pilot Project Evaluation Report, visit http://www.c-changetogether.org/ pubs/reports/C-Change%20Cancer%20 Core%20Competency%20Final%20 Report%209_25.pdf. ✱ Oncology Nurses Highlighted in National TV Program O NS was an outreach partner, along with the American Society of Clinical Oncology, for Frosted Pink With a Twist, an innovative television special designed to raise awareness about cancers primarily affecting women. Timed to coordinate with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the program aired on network and cable television during the month of October. Cohosted by Mary Lou Retton, Frosted Pink With a Twist highlighted stars from the men’s and women’s U.S. Olympic gymnastics teams. In addition to the champion gymnasts, the program featured Grammy award–winning music talent, making for a historical evening of sports, entertainment, and health awareness designed to empower women to become advocates for their health. Part of the television special included a spot that highlighted the important role oncology nurses play as advocates and coaches for patients with cancer. It featured ONS Emily Tranin, daughter of ONS member Amy Strauss member Amy Strauss Tranin, and U.S. Olympic champion Nastia Liukin Tranin, ARNP, MS, AOCN®, secretary of the ONS Board of nastic competitor. Directors, representing the Kansas City For more information on Frosted Pink Cancer Center, and her daughter Emily, With a Twist, visit www.frostedpink who is 10 years old and a level 5 gym- .org. ✱ December 2008 ONS CONNECT 17 http://www.c-changetogether.org/pubs/reports/C-Change%20Cancer%20Core%20Competency%20Final%20Report%209_25.pdf http://www.c-changetogether.org/pubs/reports/C-Change%20Cancer%20Core%20Competency%20Final%20Report%209_25.pdf http://www.c-changetogether.org/pubs/reports/C-Change%20Cancer%20Core%20Competency%20Final%20Report%209_25.pdf http://www.c-changetogether.org/pubs/reports/C-Change%20Cancer%20Core%20Competency%20Final%20Report%209_25.pdf http://www.frostedpink.org http://www.frostedpink.org
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