Gaining a better understanding of the support function of oncology nurse navigators from their own perspective and that of people living with cancer: Part 2.

Abstract

Individuals living with cancer have a wide range of needs throughout the disease trajectory. To better meet them, the PQLC [French acronym of the Quebec Cancer Control Program] implemented the oncology nurse navigator (ONN) role. A first article presented the nature of the needs of individuals living with cancer and of the support provided by ONNs. This second article aims at gaining a better understanding of the ONN support function from the ONNs' own perspective and to complete an exploratory description of their support interventions for individuals living with cancer and their loved ones throughout the care trajectory. The sample includes ten ONNs. They reported doing support interventions for all the various types of needs, especially in the informational (44%) and practical areas such as coordinating appointments for exams, practitioners and various services (35%). The results also suggest that a needs assessment is a prerequisite to intervention. Lastly, all participants underscored the importance of the helping relation and trusting relationship to clarify their support function. These results are consistent with the findings of several recent articles on the psychosocial role of oncology nurses.