| Sumario: | Systemic therapy treatment for cancer is a specialized and complex area of nursing. In January 2024, our two Ambulatory Oncology units- one focused on solid tumour patients and the other on hematology- merged into one care team. Though both units had operated within the same hospital and management, significant practice differences had evolved over time. Despite thorough planning prior to merging, a critical question remained: how do we adequately prepare and support nursing staff through this transition? Members of our nursing practice council, Clinical Nurse Educators, and Clinical Resource Nurses assessed the learning needs of the RNs, which helped us develop a formalized plan. This multifaceted education encompassed strategies that supported both novice and expert learners, including online learning modules, theory-based education, simulation training and "exchange programs." Once implemented, the largest barrier identified was nurses' anxiety toward caring for the less familiar patient population. Feedback obtained through staff checkins and surveys uncovered that RNs with more than 5 years' experience on their previous units expressed increased anxiety and concern toward change compared to those newer to the specialty. Our leadership team continued to support staff, and their learning needs to promote positive change. While some nurses chose to change career paths during this transition, others embraced this new challenge. For recently onboarded nurses, a comprehensive transition to practice was developed that included the integration of hematology and solid tumour sites. In retrospect, time proved to be the most significant factor in building nursing confidence, enabling development of specialized skills and the ability to navigate new expectations. Through this gradual process, nurses gained the confidence needed to perform their roles effectively within our new integrated team.
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