Foundation Program in Oncology and Hematology for Newly Recruited Nurses

There is a constant need to educate and upskill nurses who are new to oncology settings. This article describes the outcomes of an education quality improvement (QI) project at an Organisation of European Cancer Institutes–accredited cancer center in Ireland. Using an action research (AR) methodology, a hospital-based education program was designed and evaluated. Program development occurred over two AR cycles. First-cycle evaluation of nurse participants found that the course curriculum was relevant and improved nurses’ confidence in their clinical abilities. In the second cycle, the class changed from in-person to online learning because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Evaluation data suggested that online learning was acceptable, supported greater access to the program, and offered financial and time-saving benefits.

At a Glance

• AR methodology was used in developing the curriculum to ensure that educational needs of new hematology-oncology nurses were addressed.
• Classroom, simulation, and practice-based learning improved nurses’ clinical confidence.
• The program enabled sharing of specialist knowledge to new hematology-oncology nurses, providing a bridge between nurse orientation and postgraduate requirements.