#1015 Cancer Patient Care: Treatment And Support (15 Credits/Hours)

(15 Credits/Hours)

Launch Date: August 5, 2025
Expires: August 31, 2027

Course Overview

This comprehensive course provides healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and skills for delivering patient-centered cancer care across the continuum, from diagnosis through survivorship and end-of-life care.

Table of Contents

1. Fundamentals of Cancer Biology and Pathophysiology
2. Cancer Screening, Detection, and Diagnostic Procedures
3. Cancer Staging and Prognostic Factors
4. Surgical Oncology and Perioperative Care
5. Chemotherapy Administration and Management
6. Radiation Therapy Principles and Patient Care
7. Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy Approaches
8. Cancer Pain Assessment and Management
9. Symptom Management and Supportive Care
10. Psychosocial Care and Mental Health Support
11. Communication Skills in Cancer Care
12. Nutritional Support for Cancer Patients
13. Palliative Care Integration and Principles
14. End-of-Life Care and Hospice Services
15. Family and Caregiver Support Systems
16. Cancer Survivorship and Long-Term Follow-Up
17. Cultural Competency in Cancer Care
18. Ethical Considerations and Quality Improvement in Oncology

Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

Clinical Knowledge and Assessment

• Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of cancer biology, tumor behavior, and disease progression patterns across major cancer types
• Perform thorough cancer risk assessments and implement appropriate screening protocols based on current evidence-based guidelines
• Accurately interpret diagnostic tests, staging systems, and prognostic indicators to inform treatment planning and patient education
• Conduct systematic symptom assessments using validated tools and implement appropriate interventions for cancer-related symptoms

Treatment Management and Care Delivery

• Safely administer chemotherapy agents while monitoring for adverse effects and implementing appropriate safety protocols
• Provide competent nursing care for patients receiving radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments
• Develop and implement individualized care plans that address the complex needs of cancer patients across all treatment phases
• Coordinate multidisciplinary care effectively to ensure seamless transitions between treatment modalities and care settings

Pain and Symptom Management

• Utilize evidence-based approaches to assess, monitor, and manage cancer-related pain using pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions
• Implement comprehensive symptom management strategies for common cancer-related issues including nausea, fatigue, neuropathy, and skin reactions
• Recognize and respond appropriately to oncological emergencies and treatment-related complications

Communication and Psychosocial Care

• Demonstrate therapeutic communication skills when discussing diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, and goals of care with patients and families
• Provide culturally sensitive care that respects diverse beliefs, values, and preferences regarding cancer treatment and end-of-life decisions
• Assess and address psychosocial distress, anxiety, depression, and coping challenges throughout the cancer trajectory
• Facilitate difficult conversations about treatment decisions, advance directives, and transitions to palliative or hospice care

Family and Support Systems

• Evaluate family dynamics and caregiver burden while implementing appropriate support interventions and resource referrals
• Educate patients and families about treatment expectations, self-care strategies, and when to seek medical attention
• Connect patients and families with community resources, support groups, and financial assistance programs

Specialized Care Approaches

• Integrate palliative care principles into cancer treatment from diagnosis through survivorship or end-of-life
• Provide compassionate end-of-life care that honors patient wishes and supports family members through the dying process
• Develop survivorship care plans that address long-term effects, surveillance needs, and health promotion strategies
• Implement nutritional assessments and interventions to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life

Professional and Ethical Practice

• Apply ethical principles and frameworks when addressing complex decision-making scenarios in cancer care
• Advocate effectively for patient rights, preferences, and access to appropriate care and resources
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and utilize evidence-based practice to enhance cancer care delivery
• Maintain professional competency through continuing education and staying current with advances in cancer treatment and care

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Function effectively as a member of the interdisciplinary oncology team while clearly communicating patient needs and care priorities
• Recognize the scope of practice for various team members and make appropriate referrals to specialists and support services
• Contribute to care planning meetings and tumor board discussions with relevant clinical insights and patient advocacy perspectives