Chemotherapy Nurse

The Chemotherapy Nurse provides direct and indirect patient services to individuals undergoing chemotherapy treatment. This role involves efficient communication with chemotherapy physicians, nurse practitioners, nurse managers, and co-workers regarding changes in patients’ clinical conditions and policy/procedure updates. The nurse must respond quickly and accurately to changes in both patient and unit conditions to ensure safe and quality care.

Essential Job Functions

• Perform a variety of duties that may shift in focus without loss of efficiency or composure.
• Accept responsibility for directing, controlling, and planning activities.
• Make evaluations and decisions based on measurable or verifiable criteria.
• Work independently while supporting a team-oriented environment.
• Recognize and uphold patient confidentiality rights and responsibilities.
• Convey empathy and compassion to patients experiencing pain, grief, or trauma.
• Foster teamwork and cooperation in interactions with colleagues.
• Communicate effectively and therapeutically with individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Incorporate guest relations into daily activities.
• Provide care attuned to the patient’s age-specific, cultural, physical, and psychosocial needs.
• Support the organization’s mission, vision, and values through adherence to policies and procedures.
• Participate in ongoing education related to relevant programs as applicable to the position.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Required: Graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing; evidence of continuing education relevant to skill level and area of practice.
• Preferred: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations

• Required: Current RN license in the State of Oregon; BLS certification; ONS Chemotherapy & Biotherapy Provider Card.
• Preferred: Oncology Nursing Certification or willingness to obtain within three years of hire.

Experience

• Required: At least one year of acute care or medical/surgical nursing experience.
• Preferred: Previous oncology experience.

Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to provide comprehensive care tailored to age-specific, cultural, physical, and psychosocial needs of patients.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with patients, families, physicians, and other healthcare team members.
• Collaboration and teamwork capabilities to ensure quality patient care.
• Strong critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Physical Requirements

This position requires auditory, visual, and tactile abilities essential for patient care and monitoring. The role involves:

• Continuous walking and standing throughout shifts.
• The ability to lift objects up to 50 pounds independently and to push, pull, or reposition patients weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional lifting of individuals weighing over 100 pounds, with appropriate techniques and assistance.
• Frequent need for motor coordination during medical procedures.

Working Conditions

The Chemotherapy Nurse operates primarily in an indoor healthcare environment, subject to variable indoor temperatures and potential exposure to infectious diseases and hazardous materials. Adherence to safety protocols and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory. The work environment is fast-paced and may involve managing multiple demands and responding to emergencies or high-pressure situations.