You Tell Us
How Do You Handle Inmates in Your Cancer Center?
I handle inmates just like I would any other patient. My role is not to judge the situation, only the disease and plan of care and to offer compassionate care—to everyone.
How Do You Respond to Questions About the Side Effects of Gardasil®?
I tell patients that it is important to maintain follow-up appointments as outlined by their physician. I also encourage the younger women I work with to consult a gynecological oncologist if their OB/GYN does not answer their questions to their satisfaction. Promote safe sex, with the understanding that condoms are not always effective against HPV.
What Drew You to Nursing as a Second Career?
After 20 years in business, I went back to school to get my RN associate degree. With a family and a full-time job, I still wanted to pursue my first career choice, registered nurse. My employer offered tuition reimbursement based on grades with 100% reimbursement for As. Nursing classes were interesting and challenging, so I was able to keep my GPA in the 80%–100% reimbursement range.
How Did You Find Your Oncology Nursing Specialty?
As we celebrate Nurses Day this month, I reflect on one of the main reasons I became an oncology nurse. Almost 22 years ago, I had the great privilege to be mentored by some of the best oncology nurses I have ever worked with. I was a new grad and was hired by a group interview led by the nurses of an inpatient oncology unit. These nurses took me under their wings and guided me, encouraged me, and taught me immeasurable lessons that made me love being an oncology nurse to this day.
How Has SIG Membership Influenced Your Practice?
When I first began working in cancer prevention and early detection more than 20 years ago, few nurses were practicing in that area. Membership in the Prevention/Early Detection SIG initially provided a means for me to stay current in a domain with few publications or resources. At Congress, I got to meet with others who shared my passion for this area of oncology, which eventually resulted in publication of articles and books and, most importantly, sharing about how to approach administrative and clinical challenges associated with the implementation of cancer screening and prevention programs.
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