1. Module 2: What is the Role of the Nurse Navigator?
Instructor
Wanda Jones, RN OCN BS HM
Oncology Outreach Coordinator
Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion
Unit 1: Patient Navigation

2. Objectives □ The participant will be able to define the role of
the Nurse/Patient Navigation
□ The participant will have a general understanding
of the role of a Nurse/Patient Navigator
Unit 1: Patient Navigation

3. Introduction
Link between newly diagnosed cancer patients and the continuum of cancer care
A means of educating and empowering patients in the fight against cancer
Liaison between the community and healthcare system
Unit 1: Patient Navigation

4. Definition
"Patient navigation" in cancer care refers to the assistance offered to healthcare consumers (patients, survivors, families, and caregivers) to help them access and then chart a course through the healthcare system and overcome any barriers to quality care, throughout the continuum.
Unit 1: Patient Navigation

5. Role
To reduce barriers to access of quality cancer care throughout the continuum of care
To educate the healthcare consumer (patients, survivors, families, and caregivers) on prevention, screening and early detection.
To educate the healthcare consumer about the disease process, surgical options, treatment options, possible treatment side effects.
To advocate for and support the healthcare consumer
Unit 1: Patient Navigation

6. Role To schedule / Coordinate appointments
To assist with transportation / lodging
To follow-up with healthcare consumer / provider
To be culturally sensitive and to provide culturally sensitive materials to healthcare consumer
To assess psychosocial needs and make referrals as appropriate
To assist medical office staff / practitioner with healthcare consumer’s need
Unit 1: Patient Navigation

7. Unit 1: Patient Navigation

8. Unit 3: Major Cancers, Prevention, & Staging