| Sumario: | Significance & Background: Cancer patients undergo numerous procedures throughout their treatment journey. At an NCI-designated cancer center, a newly appointed interventional radiologist started performing non-cancer-related procedures at a regional site. These procedures included different types of embolizations (liver, knee, prostate & uterine) and the implantation of arm ports. However, the nursing staff in the Interventional Radiology (IR) department was unfamiliar with these specific procedures and needed frontline education to support them effectively. Purpose: This presentation aims to address the standardization and education of nursing staff regarding non-oncology IR procedures performed on patients at a cancer center. Interventions: A multidisciplinary team, including clinical nurse specialists, nursing professional development specialists, nursing leadership, a health education specialist, and an interventional radiologist, collaborated to develop educational materials for nursing staff and patients regarding new IR procedures being performed at all locations. The nursing leadership team held monthly meetings to assess the academic needs of the nursing staff, review relevant policies and procedures, identify necessary equipment for these procedures, and enhance patient education. Training was delivered virtually as well as through a comprehensive three-day course, focusing on the new procedures and patient recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Results: Since the launch of the education program, approximately 50 nurses have been trained in the new IR procedures. The total number of patients who have undergone the procedure will be reported at the time of the presentation. Additionally, the institution's IV guidelines were updated to permit nurses to administer medications necessary for patient recovery. Patient education materials were developed to be provided before and after the procedures. Nursing staff and IR technologists also received training on new closure devices and recovery equipment. Discussion: Oncology patients seek care closer to home, including access to IR procedures in outpatient settings. To meet this need, nursing staff must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe, competent, and compassionate care. Establishing a collaborative, well-trained team through education and training of staff enhances patient experience and quality of care delivered.
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