We are launching the Academic Express section to promote academic exchanges and the development of oncology nursing. Each issue will feature the latest research findings from ISNCC members.
In this issue, we are honoured to invite Dr. Natalie Bradford from the 
Centre for Cancer and Palliative Care, Queensland University of Technology to share her latest research “Cancer Nurses’ Voices and Recommendations to Address Workforce Challenges: A Qualitative Analysis” published in Seminars in Oncology Nursing.
As cancer nurses, our own well-being and job satisfaction are not always heard, yet both are essential to maintaining high-quality patient care. While many cancer nurses are dedicated and resilient, there are increasing challenges to providing safe, equitable care to patients. Understanding workplace issues are key to making improvements, This research aimed to give Australian cancer nurses the platform to share their experiences and propose solutions to enhance both their professional fulfilment and patient outcomes.
What We Discovered
In our study, we analysed the survey responses of 601 cancer nurses to understand the balance between their sense of fulfilment and the numerous obstacles they face in the workplace. The study revealed two main themes.
First, nurses consistently reported finding great personal and professional fulfilment in their roles, even while grappling with overwhelming workloads, burnout, and limited opportunities for career progression. Many felt undervalued, which, coupled with these pressures, added to emotional strain.
Second, the nurses identified solutions to the workforce challenges they encounter, including the need for improved nurse-to-patient ratios, structured career development programs, dedicated time for learning, and better mentorship. Despite these solutions being voiced at the grassroots level, nurses expressed frustration at perceived organisational inertia and resistance to change.
Implications for Cancer Care
The findings of this study carry important implications for cancer nursing globally. Tangible solutions to address workforce challenges include: 1) enhance educational and career and opportunities, 2) invest in the workforce, 3) address compassion fatigue, and 4) strengthen nursing leadership, management and support. To operationalize these solutions collaboration between healthcare institutions, educational providers, professional organizations and the cancer nursing workforce is imperative. Providing nurses with opportunities for professional growth and fostering interdisciplinary teamwork will contribute to a more sustainable workforce. Additionally, ongoing research to understand the changing needs of the cancer nurse would help inform future education agendas and development opportunities, as well as policy reform in the workplace. Addressing these workforce challenges is not only a matter of nurse well-being but also crucial to improving patient care. It is clear that by listening to and acting on the voices of cancer nurses, we can create an environment where both nurses and their patients thrive.
Through this research, we hope to inspire further dialogue and action within the field, ensuring that cancer nurses feel supported, valued, and empowered to provide the best care possible.
Reference:
Bradford, N., Kirk, D., Taylor, K., Williams, N., McErlean, G., Cook, O., ... & Moore, E. (2024, October). Cancer Nurses’ Voices and Recommendations to Address Workforce Challenges: A Qualitative Analysis. In Seminars in Oncology Nursing (Vol. 40, No. 5, p. 151722). WB Saunders. Cancer Nurses’ Voices and Recommendations to Address Workforce Challenges: A Qualitative Analysis - ScienceDirect
