Occupational exposure to chemotherapy is a significant and ubiquitous danger to oncology nurses. The Oncology Clinical Nurse III/IV leadership group at the University of North Carolina Hospitals embarked on the challenge of a comprehensive standards review regarding personal protective equipment necessary when handling waste after hazardous drug administration. This review led to practice improvements in education, the use of chemotherapy-rated gloves when handling hazardous waste, and changes in the disposal options available to staff. A discharge teaching pamphlet on safe handling for the caregivers of patients receiving hazardous drugs was created and piloted.
Objectives Inherent treatment complexities for patients with both cancer and multiple chronic conditions (MCC) make these patients likely candidates for shared care between primary care providers (PCPs) and oncologists. However, providers' views on the optimal model for care coordination between PCPs and oncologists in the context of both cancer and MCC are unclear. Thus, the purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the perceptions of PCPs and oncologists regarding barriers and facilitators to care coordination during the care of patients with cancer and MCC, and their opinions on what is needed to improve current care coordination strategies. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, CINAHL and PsycINFO for articles pertaining to PCPs' and oncologists' perspectives, experiences and needs regarding care coordination during the cancer care continuum, in the context of patients with cancer and MCC. Key findings A total of 22 articles were retained. From qualitative synthesis, three themes emerged regarding PCPs' and oncologists' perceived barriers to cancer care coordination: (1) limited findings of physicians' experiences in MCC care; (2) lack of defined provider roles in cancer care; and (3) lack of comprehensive information sharing, efficient communication methods and clear shared-care plans during care for cancer patients with MCC.Conclusions Results provide insights into providers' needs for navigating the complexities of cancer care coordination. Future studies should consider further investigating the needs of patients and multiple provider types for optimizing care coordination throughout the cancer care continuum.Provider perspective on oncology care coordination Natalie S. Hohmann et al.
Achieving chapter 800 compliance presented several operational, clinical, and financial challenges for the medical center, requiring months of preparation and diligence by the hospital leadership. The pharmacy department-led compliance collaborative allowed departments to proactively align while implementing practice and quality standards to foster safety for patients, workers, and the environment.
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