Caring for Staff: The Role of Psychiatric Mental Health Advanced Practice RNs in Supporting Oncology Nurses
Ruth Frankenfield, MS, APRN-CNS, PMHCNS; Kathrynn Thompson, MS, APRN-CNS, PMHCNS-BC; Amy Lindsey, MS, APRN-CNS, PMHCNS-BC; Amy Rettig, MALM, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, PMHNP-BC, CBCN®
CJON
10.1188/18.CJON.569-572
Description
Compassion fatigue and burnout are well-established experiences for oncology nurses, often resulting in distress and reduced job satisfaction and prompting nurses to leave the profession altogether. Multiple interventions have been developed to better support nurses experiencing these phenomena, with varying success.
AT A GLANCE
- In the complex care of patients with cancer, more resources are needed to support the health and well-being of oncology nurses.
- Psychiatric mental health advanced practice RNs can develop programs that address resilience, coping, moral distress, and compassion fatigue.
- A nurse-led interprofessional approach can support the emotional health and well-being of oncology nurses.